Victoria Hayman, 39, from Tonbridge, in Kent, who is a French and German teacher at Hayesbrook secondary: “Overall Labour education policy is very good. But I have concern about inclusion. It is a fantastic idea but there is not enough money. Parents shouldn’t have any more power because they don’t know what they are talking about basically.”

Kyle McGregor, aged 18, from Weaver Vale near Chester, working as a data coordinator during his gap year: “Labour has done a lot in education - I left Helsby high school four months ago, and they’ve had massive improvements since 1997 with lots of mentors, new IT suites and a big new sixth form. I’m all for academies because their GCSE results have improved so much. I’m not so sure about creating more faith schools - it’s a tricky issue because it could create more religious divisions.”

Sandra Fenwick, aged 56, a councillor for Hartlepool borough: “I have been opposed to academies but I’ve heard an MP talking here about how good they’ve been in her area so I’m feeling more open-minded about them now.

Labour’s done wonders for education. The children I still think we are letting down, though, are those with learning needs like dyslexia.”

Carl Crompton, aged 57, councillor on Preston City council: “Our schools in Preston have seen dramatic improvements over the last few years and it has been a great help for them to run their own budgets.

“I’ve spoken to Ruth Kelly here and she seems very positive and focused and she sticks to her guns. But giving failing schools just a year to improve or close seems a bit out - it can take two or three years to turn a school around.”

Kate Anolue, aged 50, a midwife and member of Enfield council: “The idea of giving more power to parents is good because everyone is always blaming parents, and if schools work with them it is better for the education system.”