Winchester MP Steve Brine paid a visit to Henry Beaufort School on Friday 20th May to meet new Headteacher Sue Hearle and pupils.
The MP discussed issues around the English Baccalaureate, the schools use of BTEC qualifications as part of curriculum personalisation and any future application for Academy status. He sat in on a BTEC lesson introducing the art of animation to a group of pupils.
Steve also received a presentation from support staff members on the way Henry Beaufort cares for vulnerable pupils.
Speaking after the visit he said: "Like any school Henry Beaufort handles a growing number of pupils with complex emotional problems. They may be experiencing problems at home as a result of divorce, lack of work or be caring for a sick parent.
"It is so important we look after these vulnerable kids and help get them in a place where they can learn during the school day. I was hugely impressed with the staff and student mentoring programme Sue Hearle oversees and the very obvious impact the school is having on young peoples' lives.
"I was very keen also to hear the senior team's view on Academy Status in the future. I understand they are sitting tight at the moment but was interested to hear of an increasingly close relationship being fostered between the three city schools.
"Sue Hearle is not new to Henry Beaufort but she is clearly building on the school's strengths and I feel very confident the school will go from strength to strength under her leadership."
One school in the Winchester constituency, Thornden in Chandler's Ford, has so far become an Academy and Perins in Alresford is currently out to consultation on making the move.
Before departing, the MP held a question and answer session with members of the Student Leader Team who asked about overseas aid, super-injunctions and the role of higher education.
Mr Brine said there were a number of issues raised during his visit which he would raise with Ministers and added he would be inviting Education Secretary Michael Gove to visit the city in the near future.
Pictured; Steve joins Year 11 pupils and members of the HBS Student Leader Team
More information...
Visit the school website at www.beaufort.hants.sch.uk
