Prestigious Speaker
Jack McAdam and Lauren Sutherland asked searching questions about the selection process at Universities and the financial and personal support an undergraduate could expect to receive. Leanne Rigby and Shannon Dennett looked ahead and asked Stephen if he thought that attending a prestigious university would enhance their careers and how he saw Britain’s economic future affecting job prospects.
It was a great pleasure to welcome to our school the Shadow Secretary of State for Education, Stephen Twigg MP on Friday 9th November. Stephen addressed over 60 of our students who have been selected to take part in the Prestigious Universities Programme. Stephen spoke about his time growing up in Enfield, London where he attended the local comprehensive school. From there he went on to study Politics, Philosophy and Economics at Oxford University before making In true “Question Time” style, Amy Dignall put the politician on the spot when she a spectacular entry into Parliament by defeating Michael Portillo in the 1997 asked him “Is there anything you would change in the current education system?” General Election. to which Stephen responded immediately, explaining fully his ideas.
Our students listened very attentively as he described his journey from humble Stephen then had a tour of our new building and then joined Y10 and Y11 beginnings to one of the best Universities in the world. It was inspiring stuff and students for lunch before departing for his constituency in West Derby. I hope our students on the programme will aspire to reach the top also. It was a resounding success largely because Stephen was so approachable and In a question and answer session that followed, took time to converse with the students who unanimously agreed that the event Stephen was bombarded with questions including was inspirational, informative and thoroughly engaging. from Hannah Smith who asked him “Were you treated any differently at Oxford because you came I felt quite privileged that such a prominent politician, particularly the Shadow from a Comprehensive school?” Stephen replied Secretary of State for Education, was able to visit and spend over 3 hours with us that he was treated like anyone else and enjoyed his and I would like to thank Stephen for his generosity and his commitment to young time at Oxford mixing with students from all walks people and schools (this one in particular!). of life. Tyler Kneale and Luke Eaton asked him how difficult it was to get into Oxford and how hard he had to work while he was there. Stephen explained how the life of an undergraduate was at times a lot of fun there was also a lot of hard work involved in being successful. Other contributors included Chloe Furnival, Alex Edwards and Charley Day who asked about life as a prominent politician including from Charley “How did it feel when you defeated Michael Portillo in the 1997 General Election?”
The Monthly Newsletter for Parents and Carers from the Head of School, Mr B. Carney.
November 2012 Issue