Listen to this story Members can listen to an AI-generated audio version of this article. 1.0x Audio narration uses an AI-generated voice. 0:00 0:00 Become a member to listen to this article Subscribe Almost two years to the day since becoming education secretary, Bridget Phillipson lost what she once described as “the best job in government”. The Houghton and Sunderland South MP presided over Labour’s education policy since 2021, when she became shadow education secretary. She watched the merry-go-round of ministers under the Conservative government, knowing that once an election was called, she would likely be leading the Department for Education. Become a member for unlimited access to Schools Week subscribe Our members enjoy early access to exclusive content and in-depth articles before anyone else. Get expert journalism, experience fewer ads, and unlock a growing range of member benefits.