My Barnoldswick & Earby Times, Colne Times and Nelson Leader Column for Friday 17th August 2018…
For many young people and their families, the last few weeks have been stressful to say the least. The publication of A-level results means lots of nervous anticipation. The results mark the culmination of years of hard work for pupils, teachers and parents and everyone who has been receiving their results should be congratulated on their achievements.
On Thursday morning, I was delighted to join Nelson and Colne College students to help celebrate some of their outstanding achievements. I wish them all the very best of luck as they prepare to head off to university, or the world of work.
They can do so encouraged about their future job prospects. On Tuesday, independent data from the Office of National Statistics, confirmed that the unemployment rate has fallen to 4%, the lowest since 1975. Youth unemployment is at its lowest rate on record. There are more job vacancies than at any time on record and average wages are up 2.7% in the last year.
Nothing is more important than ensuring our young people get the best start in life and therefore I am pleased that recent changes to education are bearing fruit. Because of the government’s school reforms, we are seeing signs of substantial progress.
In Pendle, the number of pupils attending good or outstanding schools has doubled since 2010 and Nelson and Colne College is now recognised as one of the best in the country. Our local headteacher and teachers deserve huge credit for this progress, ensuring local parents have a better choice of high performing schools than ever before.
Away from A-level results day I have kept myself busy out and about across Pendle. Speaking to farmers about Brexit and agricultural issues at the Trawden Show. Joining a local postman on his post round in Barnoldswick to see the challenges our local postmen and women face. Visiting the Pennine Community Credit Union to discuss low cost lending and other issues. Helping launch the annual Pendle Walking festival, which helps attract so many people into the borough to enjoy our countryside.
There are so many good things happening across Pendle at the moment and so many events to attend as we enjoy one of the hottest summers on record.
