Loughborough MP Andy Reed visited Burleigh Community College on Friday 20th June to meet students, the Principal and the Chair of Governors

During the morning session the local MP had the opportunity to address the whole of year 12 and to meet a smaller group of students to listen to their views. He also had the chance to visit an Art and Textile exhibition of A level work and look at some of the buildings on the Thorpe Hill site

Gary Clarke, a student at the College and a member of the College Council said ‘this was a very interesting experience and gave all of us an insight into the life and role of an MP. It was an opportunity to ask questions and challenge some current Government issues.’

In his address to the students Andy Reed talked about the importance of the student voice and the relevance of being involved in shaping the way the Country was governed.

In the meeting with the small group of Students he was faced with questions regarding student loans, the funding of post 16 students at Colleges and the problems with the economy at the moment.

At the meeting with the Principal, John Smith, and the Chair of Governors, Andy Martin, the proposed Trust status of Burleigh Community College was top of the agenda and this proposal continued to be supported by Loughborough’s MP. Post 16 funding, the future of education provision in Leicestershire and Community education were also discussed.

A series of future meetings were agreed to ensure continuous contact was maintained.

In the photograph with Andy Reed are (from Left to right) post 16 students Daiman Patel, Gary Clarke, Tasmin Chamberlin, Kirsty Wan and Bhavika Taylor.

For further information please contact John Smith, Principal Burleigh Community College , on 01509 554400