On Wednesday I attended a meeting with fellow Knowsley MP George Howarth to talk to Under Secretary of State for Schools Lord Nash alsoattended by Knowsley Council and the Regional Schools Commissioner.

During the meetingthe Minister indicated that the Government want to ensure that a new centre for A Level provision providing 250 places somewhere in the centre of Knowsley can be opened as soon as possible and that they will work with Knowsley Council to achieve this. It is good to know that the Government is treating this matter with the seriousness it deserves.

I am encouraged that the Government have committed themselves to do everything they can including looking swiftly at providing finance if there is a viable business plan to reintroduce A Level provision. I am particularly encouraged by the commitment that the education provider will have a track record of excellent provision which is essential for young people in Knowsley.

I will be following developments closely to ensure that my constituents in Halewood have the best educational opportunities available to them within their own communities without having to travel out of the Borough.

I particularly welcome the Minister’s agreement to meet with local MPs again as necessary to get this job of reintroducing A Level provision done.

You can read the Liverpool Echo’s story on Knowsley Education here –Liverpool Echo Knowsley Education