No substitute for classroom learning

I have visited nine schools in Peterborough in recent weeks. Heads, teachers and support staff are doing a brilliant job, facilitating e-learning and looking after vulnerable families. But their huge effort is no substitute for classroom learning, writes Peterborough MP Paul Bristow.

I put this to the Prime Minister at PMQs and asked him whether he agreed that it’s vital to get all children back where they belong, in the classroom, from September.

Boris gave a vote of confidence in Peterborough schools, adding it was regrettable that the Labour Party didn’t feel the same. The Prime Minister is right. Even now, Labour won’t admit that schools are safe.

One of my promises was to visit every school in my constituency. I’m well on the way and impressed with what I have seen. Local headteachers are keen to get children back in the classroom. Peterborough’s teachers want to teach.

There have been suggestions that some teachers have not been working too hard during lockdown. This isn’t reflected in what I’ve seen. Every school that I have visited has a programme for e-learning. Many are helping parents with printing, so children who can’t get online can use paper-based learning.

Sadly, not every child has a stable or happy home. Vulnerable children have been contacted regularly, ensuring they take part in remote learning. Vouchers for those who normally get free school meals have been crucial for supporting families, as have mentoring schemes.

The range of activities is impressive. I met Rocky the Raven at Ravensthorpe Primary School; took a workout on an outdoor gym at Welbourne Primary Academy; and got quizzed on politics and the pandemic at All Saints Primary School (pictured) and the Thomas Deacon Academy.

I was called out by pupils who could rule the world at TDA Junior; wowed by the artwork at Gunthorpe Primary; taught a thing or two by teachers and pupils alike at the Beeches Primary School; and put through my paces at Sacred Heart. It was also great to be there when the sixth formers returned to Ken Stimpson Community School.

These were moments to remember. Each and every school made its mark on me, as they should.

As I went round, I tried my best to say thank you not just to the teachers, but to the support staff, receptionists and admin teams; to the cooks and everyone involved in school meals; and to those who look after the school estates. They are all important in our children’s education.

Schools have always been at the centre of Peterborough’s neighbourhoods. Recently, they have become hubs for all sorts of community activities. These take place through school libraries, after-school clubs, adult education, sporting facilities, and the provision for families who need extra support.

Not everything is perfect. Results in our city’s primary schools still need to improve. Pupil churn and language play a part, but we need to be honest – leadership in some of our schools should be stronger.

Most importantly, we need to get our children back and learning normally. It’s been disturbing to see Peterborough Labour’s leader, Cllr Shaz Nawaz, peddling conspiracy theories about COVID-19. It’s grossly irresponsible.

We all have a role in improving results. Parents, teachers, councillors and myself, as the local MP.

The schools I’ve visited are up for the challenge. I am too!