The Department for Education has revealed that since the government came into power in 2010, an "unprecedented" number of new schools have come into existence.

Over a four-year period, more than 400 new technical and free schools have come into existence in England, which has, in turn, expanded school places by a notable 200,000.

The development of these new schools is part of the government's wider commitment to boost education standards and provide parents with more choices, the DfE explained.

Most of the newly formed establishments are free schools, which have been set up by teachers, parents and charities. This is a marked departure from the long-established approach (set up and run by local councils and politicians based in Westminster).

Other new schools take the form of university technical colleges – which have been formed in partnership with universities and employers – and studio schools – which are focused on preparing youngsters for the workplace.

Education Secretary Nicky Morgan said the development of these new schools, which are underpinned by a commitment to quality, is part of the government's long-term economic plan.

"[These schools] help those parents that want to exercise choice, but I know that many parents just want their child to be able to go to a good local school," she continued.

"In helping to raise standards for all, these new free schools, academies and others are helping to make this possible. Analysis shows free schools are helping young people from all backgrounds fulfil their potential."

According to the DfE, many of these new schools are transforming the way children and young people access and experience education. New ideas and approaches to teaching are evident, which is helping all schools raise their standards.

Some other notable developments that have taken place since 2010 include the transformation of 900 "weak schools" into sponsored academies. This basically means they have access to experts with a "proven track record of improving education for pupils in long-term under-performing schools".