The Department for Education is responsible for children’s services and education, including higher and further education policy, apprenticeships and wider skills in England. The department is also home to the Government Equalities Office. They work to provide children’s services and education that ensure opportunity is equal for all, no matter what their background or family circumstances. 

They are responsible for:

• Teaching and learning for children in the early years and in primary schools
• Teaching and learning for young people under the age of 19 years in secondary schools and in further education
• Supporting professionals who work with children and young people
• Helping disadvantaged children and young people to achieve more
• Making sure that local services protect and support children 

Their priorities are:

• Safety and well being: that all children and young people are protected from harm and vulnerable children are supported to succeed with opportunities as good as those for any other child.
• Educational excellence everywhere: where every child and young person can access high-quality provision, achieving to the best of his or her ability regardless of location, attainment and background.
• Prepared for adult life: that all 19-year-olds complete school or college with the skills and character to contribute to the UK’s society and economy and are able to access high-quality work or study options.

Please access the link below for further information.