On Friday I visited Hetton School to meet with the Headteacher Mr Knowles to discuss the progress they are seeking to make. It was encouraging to hear of the changes being made and how they will enable students to achieve further.

Schools across the North East have faced increased pressures as a result of real term funding cuts since 2010, and our children and teachers deserve better. I will continue to work hard both locally and in Parliament to urge the government to accept the scale of the crisis facing our schools. All of our children deserve the best start in life, and local schools should receive the support they need to do the best job possible.