Following an informative Year 9 assembly, Etone College was delighted to welcome Jodie Gosling MP for a further question-and-answer session with representatives from our Year 7–10 School Council and Sixth Form Law students.
The session provided pupils with a valuable opportunity to engage directly with their local Member of Parliament, exploring the challenges and opportunities facing Nuneaton, the importance of community representation and the realities of working in public office.
A key focus of the discussion was the ongoing regeneration of Nuneaton Town Centre. Jodie discussed the four phases of development and the wider ambition to create a more vibrant town centre, attracting businesses, investment and employment opportunities. Pupils learned about the Transforming Nuneaton programme, including developments such as Grayson Place, which incorporates a new hotel, leisure facilities and a Digital Skills and Innovation Centre, alongside plans for improved public spaces and community facilities.
The conversation highlighted how regeneration requires collaboration between local authorities, businesses and other stakeholders. Jodie explained the importance of meeting with representatives from across the town, listening to different perspectives and working collectively to address challenges and bring about meaningful change.
Transport and accessibility were also discussed, including Jodie's support for a free bus initiative aimed at improving access to employment and career opportunities. This encouraged pupils to consider how transport links can influence people's ability to access education, training and work, reinforcing the importance of removing barriers to opportunity.
Another important topic was support for armed forces veterans. Jodie discussed her involvement in a funding bid to strengthen local services, including support for Veterans Contact Point through the government's VALOUR programme. The initiative aims to improve access to essential services and opportunities for veterans, demonstrating the importance of recognising and supporting those who have served their country.
Pupils were also fascinated to hear about Jodie's personal experiences in Parliament, including meeting His Majesty King Charles III and the Prime Minister. These insights offered a unique perspective on the responsibilities, experiences and opportunities associated with representing the local community at a national level.
Throughout the session, our School Council representatives and Law students demonstrated important Etone Values, particularly Integrity and Caring, through their thoughtful questions, respectful engagement and interest in improving their community. The discussion also supported essential employability skills, including communication, active listening, critical thinking and leadership.
The visit reinforced the importance of Student Leadership and active citizenship, demonstrating that young people have an important role to play in shaping the future of their communities.
We would like to thank Jodie Gosling MP for generously giving her time to engage with our pupils and providing such an insightful opportunity to learn about local and national decision-making.
