Private schools could run state's failures

Dozens of failing comprehensives could be managed by private schools in a new drive to restore confidence in secondary education.

The scheme is said to be at the centre of controversial reforms by Tony Blair for inner-city education.

Struggling schools would reopen under new contracts for which independent schools, parent groups and charities could bid.

Successful schools would expand. At least 500 would get " foundation status", with freedom to borrow money and set their own rules.

The Government also aims to create up to 100 city academies by 2010. These are state-funded but have top-quality facilities and are given extra freedom to select pupils.

But Education Secretary Charles Clarke is said to have opposed the ideas.