THE Swindon National Education Union is hosting an Education Question Time, featuring representatives from local political parties.

Representatives will explain their local and national policies around education followed by an opportunity for questions from the audience.

The union says education is facing a number of challenges: “The government’s revised funding formula leaves 91 per cent of schools facing real-terms budget cuts, with Swindon schools alone facing a combined loss of £3.1 million between 2015-2020. In addition, concerns around a narrowing curriculum and excessive testing are also causing concerns.”

Among those receiving a grilling from the public will be Ken Kimber of the Green Party, Carol Shelley of Labour, and Michele Horrobin of the Liberal Democrats. The Conservatives were unable to find a speaker.

The union said: “Swindon voters are encouraged to attend the event and consider the challenges facing schools when they vote on May 3.”

The event is on Monday, April 30, at Emmanuel Church in Upham Road, Old Walcot.

Swindon Borough Council has reminded voters to keep an eye out for their polling cards, which are required to vote in this year’s election as the government pilot’s its voter ID scheme. The pilot scheme aims to reduce voter fraud by asking voters to present a form of identification, but it has been condemned by some who feel it will restrict voting rights.

Swindon’s electoral services manager Sally Sprason said: “The council has sent out letters to every household.”