Ensuring everyone has the opportunity of a great education

We have amazing schools in Runnymede and Weybridge, and I believe that every child deserves a great education from nursery to university.

The covid pandemic has placed unprecedented pressures on schools, students and their families. It is essential we work to ensure no child is left behind and all have the opportunity for a great education.

I will:

  • Engage with our nurseries, schools, colleges and university, supporting them to deliver high quality education
  • Advocate on their behalf to the Department for Education, Ofsted, Ofqual and any other relevant body
  • Work with Surrey County Council as our Local Education Authority and other community organisations to ensure co-ordinated support for our schools
  • Support Further Education and the importance of vocational qualifications and apprenticeships
  • Lobby for a long term plan for education to ensure children and schools receive the support to catch up on what they have missed
  • Work to increase schools and college funding
  • Encourage opportunities for enrichment and engagement

News

Local Colleges Awarded Capital Funding

I am delighted that the Government has today announced that Brooklands College has been awarded £500,000 capital funding and the Windsor Forest Colleges Group, which includes Strode College in Egham, will receive £1.4 million.  

Ensuring Support for Children with SEND

It was a pleasure to meet with Surrey County Council Cabinet Member Cllr Denise Turner-Stewart and council officers to discuss my response to the Surrey SEND transport consultation and the level of service and support for children with additional needs and their families.  

Improving SEND Provision: SEND review and Green Paper Published

One of the key issues raised with me when I visit our schools or meet with our school leaders is the need for clear and consistent support for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), and the schools who support them.

Tackling Climate Change - Science, Skills and Future Workforce 

While much focus is given to the Covid crisis right now, we must not take our eye off the looming challenges that climate change will pose. So as we come to the end of the year I wanted to take a look back at COP-26 and the huge step taken forward with its agreements from global leaders and their

Visit to Chertsey High School 

I was delighted to visit Chertsey High School and meet their inspirational staff and students last week.