Sir Gavin Williamson visited St Nicholas First School in Codsall, where he met with staff and students and took a tour of the premises.
Sir Gavin visited the local school which prides itself on its ethos to ‘walk in Jesus’ footsteps’, encouraging students to uphold the school’s core values of respect, perseverance, care, trust and thankfulness. To further motivate students to perform at their best and treat others with kindness, the school operates a star of the week award which rewards one student from each class who has achieved over and above what is expected. Sir Gavin was enthused by the work of the school, and praised the initiatives taken to encourage academic discipline and respect. Sir Gavin was then invited to conduct an assembly for the students, teaching them about the meaning of democracy.
Sir Gavin said: “It is always a pleasure to see such young students asking such intelligent questions about the world of politics and democratic institutions. I was really encouraged by the teaching ethos at the school, which seems to have incredible results for student output.”
Ryan Gough, Deputy Head Teacher of St Nicholas First School said: “As part of our focus on promoting fundamental British Values, Sir Gavin Williamson visited St Nicholas CE First School, Codsall to explore the British Value of Democracy and how the role of Parliament aims to give the British people a voice. He shared the role of different members of parliament, such as the House of Commons Speaker, and how to address members of parliament during debates. He also shared with children his key role as a member of parliament, and how constituents can get in touch should they wish to raise an issue, including his role in aiming to represent and address these. As a result, many of our children have now been inspired to write to Sir Gavin Williamson about key issues that they feel are pertinent to them and their local area. We thank him for his support in our school's mission to develop our children's knowledge to lead safe, happy and healthy lives as responsible citizens in our democratic society.”
