Karen's recent schools meeting

Last Friday I hosted a series of meetings with local head teachers and the Regional Schools Commissioner, Pank Patel. Meetings took place all day with head teachers from First, Middle and High schools with discussions focusing particularly on the planned age range changes.

The Regional Schools Commissioner for the West Midlands is responsible for making decisions about the academies and free schools in local authorities.

When I met the Commissioner earlier in the year I made sure that he was left in no doubt as to how seriously I view this issue and the strength of feeling amongst my constituents, and this was made clear to him once again on Friday. 

In total 17 schools were represented and each had the opportunity to talk about their plans for the future and ask Mr Patel any questions they had about processes going forward. A range of views were expressed and the direction of travel now appears to be towards a mixed system, with some schools opting to move towards a Primary and Secondary system with others staying as First, Middle and High.

Whilst I was merely a facilitator of these meetings, I must say that I am satisfied that this outcome will be in the best interests of parents and children at our schools. As a parent myself I know just how important parent choice is. Having spoken to many parents throughout this process I know that their greatest concern was that they would be forced into accepting a change that they did not feel was in the best interest of their children.

Those at the meeting have now gone away to continue to consult with their governing bodies about the best way forward for their schools. These are ultimately decisions for schools and parents. It is now up to them to put forward a business case for any changes they want to bring forward. It will then be for the Education Funding Authority to look into to see if any proposed changes are in the best interests of our local education system. What is key is that the funding must be there to ensure that all of Redditch schools can continue to give our young people the education they deserve.

If you would like to speak to me about anything please either send me an email at [email protected] or give me a call on01527 591334. As ever you can also keep up to date with mywhereabouts on Twitter and on Facebook. 

Best wishes

Karen

Yesterday in Parliament I was honoured to swear my oath of allegiance for the second time as the Member of Parliament for Redditch County. 

MPs today have the choice of whether to take an oath of allegiance or making a solemn affirmation. Until the oath or affirmation is taken, an MP may not take their seat, speak in debates or vote. 

The wording of the oath is "I swear by Almighty God that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, her heirs and successors, according to law. So help me God."

I also took the time to visit the Worcestershire entry for the Parliament 2015 Flag project in Parliament Square, designed by Elsie from Webheath First School.

Elsie will be coming to see the flag for herself on Friday. Unfortunately I will be back in Redditch, but my Researcher is giving her family a tour of Parliament. 

Well done for a great entry, Elsie. If you want to read about the inspiration behind the design and find out more about the project see here.