New Education Minister and Secretary of State

As part of the cabinet reshuffle Nick Gibb, Schools Minister for the last ten years, and Gavin Williamson, Education Secretary since 2019, have both left their posts. 
Nick Gibb tweeted that it had “been a privilege to play a part in helping improve the life chances of the next generation”, adding he was “sad” to be leaving. He is to be replaced by Worcester MP Robin Walker who worked as private secretary to Nicky Morgan during her time as Education Minister.

Gavin Williamson tweeted “It has been a privilege to serve as Education secretary since 2019. Despite the challenges of the global pandemic, I’m particularly proud of the transformational reforms I’ve led in Post 16 education: in further education colleges, our Skills agenda, apprenticeships and more.” 

He is to be replaced by Nadhim Zahawi who in his first statement said: 

"Education is a crucial part of our levelling up agenda so it's an honour to be back at the Department for Education as secretary of state. Children and young people have had a tough time during this pandemic, and I'll be listening to them and their families as we accelerate our work to build back better and fairer."
 
Mr Zahawi has previously been Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Education from 9 January 2018 to 26 July 2019. 

His first act was to send an open letter to all working in education and care stating:

“With your help, we are going to transform the lives of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged, including those with special educational needs and disabilities and in care, and ensure that those who have lost the most from the pandemic can recover and flourish, and that prosperity benefits all.”