Member of Parliament for South Shields
Shields Gazette
Well Done To South Shields Students
Today's column is dedicated to younger readers of the Shields Gazette, particular those who received their A' Level results last week or the GCSE students who are waiting for tomorrow to arrive with baited breath. To all of you WELL DONE.
As MP for South Shields, I have visited many schools in the town this year, and it never ceases to amaze me when I see the dedication and commitment of our young people to their studies, it is clear that they want to do well, that is why they have worked so hard over the last five years to ensure great success with their GCSE's or A' Levels. Just a few weeks ago I visited Whitburn C of E Secondary School to assist in the Head Boy and Head Girl elections, the quality of the debate was outstanding, the young people were articulate, had clearly researched their topics - and the voters had a difficult choice of who to elect. During the debates, I feared for my job - I could see many of the candidates speaking on the floor of the House of Commons.
Last Year at Harton Technology College I was fortunate to be able to attend their Remembrance Service, the children spoke passionately and it was clear that they respected their past, whilst looking to the future. At the South Shields Community School, Ofsted have recognised the changes which have taken place at the school, the young people are working to achieve their very best. It is this commitment which shows that the young people of South Shields are determined to achieve.
Each year we hear the "exam bashers" who undermine the hard work of our young people and the dedication of the teaching staff to ensure their pupils realise their full potential. Results are getting better because teaching methods have changed, students learn much more interactively, the resources available are far greater than they were twenty years ago. This year's results are a tremendous tribute to all the effort which has gone into achieving these qualifications by students, supported by parents and teachers. They also show a good return on a decade of record investment and policies which have encouraged more young people to continue and achieve in education.
The Government is determined to give all young people the choices that they need to do the best they can. That is why the government has announced significant changes to the education system for 14 to 19 year olds, from next month students will be able to study exciting new Diplomas, those who start year 7 in September will be the first generation required to stay in education or training to 17, this will allow them to enhance their skills even further.
With the Building schools for the Future programme well under way in the town, new primary schools being built, the exciting plans for the redevelopment of the college and the new 6th form centre at Harton Technology College - I have no doubt education standards will continue to rise in South Shields during the months and years ahead.
Last week the Tories tried to paint a picture of doom and gloom following the A' Level results, I hope that the Tories congrulate those receiving their GCSE's tomorrow. I heartily congratulate all students in the town who have successfully completed their exams this year. Well Done to you all. You are a credit to your school and your town.