The “Praise Pod” is an initiative which is organised by the pupils themselves and is used to congratulate a pupil, or pupils, on particular achievements. Pupils who have done something noteworthy are encouraged to sit in the “Praise Pod” and be filmed by their fellow pupils, while explaining what they have achieved. This then results in the production of a DVD which pupils can take home to show their parents and friends.
Mark was shown the “Praise Pod” as part of his tour of the school, which was organised by the Headteacher Lyn Corderoy. As well as his visit to the school, Mark also went next door to visit the Collaborative Learning Centre (CLC) which is an initiative contributed to by all of the Wickford Schools, to help provide specialised learning facilities for Wickford pupils.
The Town of Wickford was added to Marks Rayleigh constituency at the 2012 General Election to form the new constituency of ‘Rayleigh and Wickford’ and since that time, Mark has been involved on a programme of visiting the schools in the town, of which the visit to Grange Primary School formed a part.
Commenting on his visit to Grange Primary School and his chance to sit in the “Praise Pod”, Mark Francois said:
“I had a very good visit to Grange Primary School and I was impressed by the commitment of both the staff and pupils there. I was also very fortunate to be allowed to sit in the “Praise Pod” to mark my visit and to have the “Praise Pod” team of pupils who run this initiative photographed alongside me. Grange Primary is clearly a very happy and successful school and I look forward to remaining in touch with them in the future”.