Portsmouth College Awards

This was a really exciting occasion and I was really pleased to be invited as education is what led me into politics to start with. I am always struck by the enthusiasm and dedication of our head teachers and I am not surprised that Portsmouth College has achieved Beacon College Status under their principal Steve Frampton. Steve is one of those inspirational heads who loves his job and not only knows his students well but is brilliant at working on partnerships with outside organisations thereby benefitting everyone.

What was great about the evening is that not only did academic achievement get recognised but also students who had achieved success through challenging circumstances. There are some students who have to live with many difficulties and yet still battle through to get qualifications and employment. Many young people give up too quickly so it shows great strength of character to persevere and I am sure that Portsmouth College provides the support that they require. I spoke to one governor who is finding financial resources to help young people not in employment, education or training (NEETs) and will be working closely with Portsmouth College and other organisations to try and get them back on track.

Sadly Portsmouth College have not got the funding they needed to rebuild but education is often about the educators and not the premises and I know that Portsmouth College has a bright future.

Graham Hurley, the best selling author who sets his books in Portsmouth, was the guest speaker and was very interesting. The next day we saw him in Old Portsmouth taking notes so watch out for his next book.