MP ‘inspired’ by turnaround at Peterborough secondary school

Paul Bristow, who was elected in December, visited the academy after it was rated as ‘Good’ by Ofsted, having previously been in special measures.

The progress has been made since the school - formerly known as Voyager Academy - transferred into the Thomas Deacon Education Trust.

Mr Bristow was taken on a tour of the school, attending lessons and speaking with pupils, teachers and governors.

After his tour the MP - who intends to visit every school in his constituency - spoke with staff about the challenges they are facing in education and how he hopes to support them.

Mr Bristow said: “I really enjoyed my time visiting Queen Katharine Academy and felt very inspired hearing about the school’s progress over the last few years and the results of their recent Good Ofsted inspection.

“The message should go out loud and clear that Queen Katharine Academy is now a school that the people of Peterborough can feel pride in. They have turned things around and they make me proud of Peterborough.”

Lynn Mayes, principal at Queen Katharine Academy, said: “It was an honour to welcome Mr Bristow to the academy. We enjoyed showing him the fantastic teaching, learning and support that takes place here and I am glad he could see first-hand how our pupils are thriving as part of the academy’s transformation. We cannot thank him enough for his support of the academy so far.”

Mr Bristow visited the Greater Peterborough University Technical College later in the day.

He has also recently paid a visit to Peterborough Rugby Club in Fengate to watch their derby match against Peterborough Lions, before later speaking to spectators in the clubhouse.

In recognition of his visit club chairman Dr Alan Graham presented the MP with one of the home club’s new retro shirts.