A SECONDARY school in Reading welcomed a member of the cabinet last week as part of a drive to explore how schools and colleges are preparing their students for STEM careers.
Education Secretary and Minister for Women and Equalities Bridget Phillipson was joined by Matt Rodda at UTC Reading to meet with the school and sixth form’s Student Executive Board and observe lessons, as well as chat with students.
They were also joined by the leader of Reading Borough Council, Cllr Liz Terry, and Cllr Wendy Griffith.
It’s part of a push to explore how educators are preparing students for careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths (STEM), as well as in computer science and other tech industries.
Students spoke to Ms Phillipson and Mr Rodda about how much they enjoyed attending UTC Reading and appreciated the opportunities for employer interaction as well as their plans for their futures.
During the visit, they asked Ms Phillipson about her inspiration to enter politics, and about her role in the Government.
Mental health in schools was also a common topic, with students talking about their planned mental health support initiatives and Ms Phillipson explaining her focus on increasing provision and support in schools.
Visitors also also discussed wider education issues with ALET CEO Jo Harper and Chief Education Officer Rachel Cave, including about how to promote inclusion in education facilities, and support disadvantaged students to be able to access the great education that can transform lives.
Mr Rodda said: “I was pleased to join Bridget Phillipson, Secretary of State for Education, alongside Council Leader Liz Terry and Cllr Wendy Griffith at UTC Reading to hear how their focus on STEM prepares pupils for careers in Engineering, computer science, and other tech industries.”
Ms Phillipson said following the visit: “It was absolutely fantastic to visit UTC Reading today with Matt Rodda.
“Meeting with students and hearing about the journey that took them to the college and their exciting plans for the future was so inspiring.
“It’s clear the teachers are doing a wonderful job in supporting these young people to realise their ambitions in STEM.”
Headteacher Jennie Thomson said: “we were delighted to welcome our guests into UTC Reading.
“It was a great opportunity for our students to meet a member of the Cabinet and to show them how proud they are of the education our school offers and some of their fabulous work.
“They showed great maturity and represented their school with confidence and professionalism.”
Year 13 student Hamza, said: “It was an incredible opportunity to meet Ms Phillipson, and I felt that we were listened to as equals; she answered our questions with care and kindness.”
More information about UTC Reading is available via: utcreading.co.uk
