I am lucky to represent one of the most rural constituencies in England, and with it, some of the most rural schools.
I recently caught up with staff and pupils at Kielder Primary School and Slaley First School. Kielder and Slaley are rated as 'Outstanding' and 'Good' respectively by Ofsted, and it is clear to see why. Teaching staff are dedicated at both schools, and the pupils benefit greatly as a result. There is an eagerness from the children to engage in learning - that much was obvious from the sea of hands and subsequent grilling I got in the Q&A session!
What is always apparent in my visits to rural schools in particular is the real pride the children have for their small school, and their understanding of it as the beating heart of their local community. I look forward to visiting again soon.
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| Getting a grilling from Class 2 Pupils at Slaley First School |
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| The school is going from strength to strength under headteacher Angela Hayward |
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| Catching up with pupils at one of Northumberland's most rural schools, Kielder Primary. |