Bristol South’s new MP Karin Smyth wasted no time beginning to meet her pledge to visit all schools in her constituency, with a trip to the Bridge Learning Campus, Hartcliffe. (Friday 22 May)
Two days after being ‘sworn-in’ to The House of Commons, the Labour MP was back in Bristol, meeting senior staff for a whistle-stop tour of the ‘all-through’ school, which caters for young people aged 3-16: nursery through to Year 11. The school, incorporating the former Hartcliffe Engineering Community College and Teyfant Primary School, was built as part of the Labour government’s Building Schools for the Future programme, and opened in January 2009.
“It’s vital that our young people learn the right skills that will set them up to take advantage of opportunities that will come their way in a rapidly changing world,” said Karin Smyth. “So my aim is to visit all south Bristol’s schools to learn more about the work they are doing to support them.
“I want to build relationships with staff and governors, and to really get to grips with the challenges they face. I see it as a key part of my MP work, helping ensure south Bristol residents have a strong voice and local champion.
“So I was delighted to kick this off by seeing the great work being done by young people, staff and governors at Bridge Learning Campus.
“It was heartening to hear senior staff affirm their commitment to supporting students’ ambitions, building their confidence, and continually improving standards of teaching.
“They were also keen to confirm the value and importance of the Pupil Premium, funding aimed at specifically raising attainment of disadvantaged students.
“When you look at the ‘big issues’ that featured in the general election, education didn’t really get a look-in, but it remains the key to all our futures,” added Karin Smyth.
Ofsted inspectors visited Bridge Learning Campus in March 2015, rating the school as a good school, with outstanding features.
During the visit Karin Smyth met with Chief Executive, Mark Davies, Associate Head (secondary phases) Keziah Featherstone, and Chair of Governors, Caroline Jenkins.