I recently attended the official opening of the newly refurbished Barley Croft Primary School.

With investment from the City Council, the school building has been transformed. An excellent community facility for local residents and children has also been created, by linking the school up with the Healthy Living Centre next door. These changes come on top of a great deal of hard work to raise standards and attainment by the Head teacher, school staff, local parents and of course the students themselves.

At the opening ceremony we heard some lovely music from the school’s steel band and ukulele group, which I was asked to play along with along with our City Mayor Sir Peter Soulsby.

I’m passionate about supporting all schools in this area. Every week, I try and spend time with Heads and teachers, to discuss the improvements they are making and the issues and challenges they face. I also take part in school assemblies and talk to the children about my job as their local Member of Parliament. You can read more about my school visits here.