Ex-journalist Paul Waugh has been appointed as an education minister by prime minister Andy Burnham, while Olivia Bailey has left government. Burnham’s reshuffle saw Lucy Powell become education secretary on Monday, replacing Bridget Phillipson. Schools minister Georgia Gould and children and families minister Josh MacAlister will remain at the DfE, but their exact roles are not confirmed. Jacqui Smith will also stay on as skills and equalities minister, with her responsibilities split between the DfE, Department for Work and Pensions and Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government. Waugh, the MP for Rochdale, said he was “delighted” to be joining the DfE. While his role has not been confirmed, Waugh said he would “help deliver the best possible start in life for our children”, suggesting he has been handed the early education brief. Waugh wrote on X: “I’m looking forward to working with people across the education sector, as well as listening to, and learning from, parents and families.” Before entering Parliament, Waugh was political editor of HuffPost UK, editor of PoliticsHome, and deputy political editor of The Independent and London Evening Standard. ‘Best job in government’ Olivia Bailey Olivia Bailey confirmed she was leaving government last night after serving as early education minister since September. The Reading West and Mid Berkshire MP said: “Disappointed to be leaving the government but proud of what we’ve achieved. “I often said that I had the best job in government, and I did. There is no more important time in our education system than the earliest years, and I have been so proud to play my small part in ensuring the best possible start for every child.” MacAlister’s re-appointment suggests he will retain the children and families brief. But Burnham may yet make changes to portfolios. MacAlister said “we’ve made a lot of good stuff happen.” “In the months and years ahead there’s much more to come. I’ll keep making everyday count.” The government announced earlier this week that Phillipson will remain as cabinet minister for women and equalities, having served as education secretary since Labour’s election win in July 2024.