Mark Francois, MP for Rayleigh and Wickford, recently spent a Friday morning visiting staff and pupils at Holt Farm Junior School to see for himself the progress made by Headteacher Andy Howe and his staff, following Ofsted’s decision that the school required ‘special measures’.
During the visit, Mark took the opportunity to discuss the progress the school is making following a large-scale change in personnel over the summer where all but two teachers were replaced, before taking a tour of the school’s facilities where he was able to view several classes in action.
Mark was also able to meet the school council, who spoke to him at length about their role and about the school’s upcoming visit to Parliament in the New Year, before he rejoined the school councillors in assembly to hand them all badges in front of other pupils and parents.
Commenting on the visit Mark said:
“I had a very positive visit to the school. I met the newly formed School Council, who put me through a very thorough 20-minute question and answer session, before handing out badges to all the council in a very well ordered assembly with proud parents looking on. I know the school has been through a difficult period but, after meeting some of the staff and pupils, I believe the school is now on the way back up. I look forward to staying in touch with Holt Farm Junior School and to welcoming pupils from the school to Westminster in the New Year.”