36 out of 37 schools in Hornchurch & Upminster are now rated Good or Outstanding by Ofsted, and I have visited each and every one of them, as well as welcoming countless school groups to talk about our democracy and the role of Parliament.

More money for our schools and special needs education

In December 2019 I stood on a manifesto to deliver more cash to our schools, particularly for children with special educational needs, after teachers highlighted ongoing cost pressures on my visits to local primaries and secondaries. We have now delivered on that promise, with more special needs places being provided in the constituency and dedicated facilities built. 

The Government has also provided Condition Improvement Funds (CIF) to enable schools across Hornchurch and Upminster to complete vital maintenance and improvement works.

In addition, Government has committed to a crucial new ten-year rebuilding programme for schools. This will be an ambitious programme, replacing poor condition and ageing school buildings, with modern, energy efficient designs, transforming education for thousands of pupils.

We want every school, no matter their circumstances or location, to have the resources to deliver the high-quality education that all parents expect.

Equipping young people with the skills they need 

I have supported the campaign to increase per-pupil funding for post-16 education to support the efforts of local colleges to train and teach young people the skills they need to access well-paid jobs in the modern economy. I have met frequently with the leaders of our local colleges and lobbied government on their behalf. Together we secured the biggest single funding increase for colleges since 2010. 

The government is also introducing T Levels to improve technical education and put it on a par with academic educational routes. 

Improved links between businesses, schools and policymakers so that our local students can access the best opportunities.

When carrying out school visits my team and I always seek to facilitate greater discussion between schools and local businesses or other stakeholders to maximise opportunities for local students. We have now provided eight Jobs, Skills & Apprenticeships Fairs in the constituency.