Graham Stuart, Member of Parliament for Beverley and Holderness, praised the children at Riston and Sigglesthorne Primary Schools for their heroic efforts to raise £250 for Children In Need.
He was given a tour of both schools on Come as your Hero Day by the Chair of Governors, Helen Freeborn, and the Headteacher of the two schools, Jenny Marsden, who was dressed as her hero Emmeline Pankhurst. It was clear to Graham from their conversations that staff throughout the school have high aspirations for their pupils and ensure they have an in-depth understanding of our country and wider world.
During his visits Graham told the children about his work as their MP and they were excited to hear that his office is next to Big Ben. He was asked lots of questions by children dressed up as a range of heroes from the footballer Mo Salah to, closer to home, their teacher Mr Roe. In total the schools raised £250 which will improve the lives of disadvantaged children and young people across the UK.
Heroes are applauded for the difference they make in their communities, and the children on Sigglesthorne School Council are certainly doing that. Graham had an enjoyable lunch with them and was very impressed with their knowledge and plans, both for their school and their careers. One girl would like to use her role on the Council to promote a snack shop in the school, while another pupil would like to be a scientist and knows they will have to display much perseverance to achieve their dream. Graham was delighted with their knowledge of politics too, with one pupil knowing all the Prime Ministers as far back as John Major.
Helen Freeborn, Chair of Governors of both Riston and Sigglethorne Primary School, said: “I was so pleased to welcome Graham to Riston and Sigglesthorne and grateful that he could find time from his busy schedule. What I especially enjoyed about his visit was seeing him engage with children of all ages, which he does exceptionally well, asking questions that really got the best out of the children and answering their questions thoughtfully.
“His lunch session with the school council at Sigglesthorne was really good for the children's speaking and listening skills development and having a real life MP to talk to is something I think they'll remember for a long time.”
Jenny Marsden, Headteacher of both Riston and Sigglesthorne Primary School, commented: “It was fantastic to welcome Graham to both of our schools. The children loved hearing about the work he does to support our community and the Sigglesthorne School Council were eager to tell him about the exciting plans they have for our school over the next year. The children are passionate about our planet so wished him well for his work at COP28.”
Beverley and Holderness MP Graham Stuart commented: “I was met with a sea of hands from curious, bright and respectful children who had lots of interesting questions for me. It is clear they are passionate about using their talents to make a positive difference, whether it be through their role on the School Council or generously helping children less fortunate than them. My visit was uplifting, and I know the children have a great future ahead of them.”
