Students were given the chance to put their questions directly to their local MP during a school visit aimed at raising aspirations and exploring future career paths.
Fred Thomas, MP for Plymouth Moor View, visited Tor Bridge High to meet pupils taking part in the school’s “Your Future Story” programme, an initiative designed to support high-achieving students from Year seven through to their first year of university.
During the visit, Fred met with year seven students involved in the long-term programme, which offers guidance and opportunities to help young people reach their potential. The scheme provides tailored support for both students and their families as they plan their future education and career pathways.
He also joined a question-and-answer session with the school parliament and school ambassadors, where students raised topics ranging from foreign policy to local issues such as roadworks.
Pupils also shared their views on potential restrictions on social media access for under-16s, an issue currently under consideration by the UK government.
The visit gave students the opportunity to discuss their ambitions, explore routes into higher education and gain insight into public service and the role of local representatives.
Tracy Stephenson, headteacher at Tor Bridge High, said: “We are very grateful to Mr Thomas for taking the time to visit and speak with our students.
“Experiences like this give them a real sense of what’s possible, and help them understand how their hard work and aspirations can translate into future opportunities.
“It was a joy to see students asking such thoughtful questions about their education and the world around them.”
Fred Thomas said: “It was brilliant to meet with a handful of students who have been selected to take part in the Your Future Story programme.
“I also thoroughly enjoyed getting a bit of a grilling from the School Parliament and School Ambassadors during a Q&A.
“There were some really insightful and thoughtful questions.”
