As part of his ongoing constituency school visits campaign, James Wild MP visited Walpole Highway Primary School during Anti-Bullying Week and Children in Need to meet pupils and staff and see how the school embeds its values of pride, resilience, ambition, tolerance, and respect throughout its curriculum.
Welcomed by Head of School and SENCo Mrs Kelly Farthing and Executive Headteacher Mrs Emma Hunt, alongside head pupils who guided him on a tour, James joined lessons on the Suffragettes, discussing social change and hearing about the causes pupils feel passionately about.
He joined classes using the newly introduced ‘Talk for Writing’ approach, which develops pupils’ writing by practising ideas aloud, analysing texts, and progressing to independent writing, with support tailored to each learner to build both confidence and ability.
James also visited the school’s new library, designed by staff and pupils to resemble a calming woodland setting, where pupils shared their favourite reads from David Walliams to “anything fantasy”. As a keen reader himself, he took a particular interest in the library and discussed with leadership how he could best support the school in ensuring all children have access to resources that inspire a love of reading.
After the tour, James joined pupils from all year groups for a lively Q&A session on democracy, standing up to bullying, and helping others, as pupils posed thoughtful questions and shared their perspectives.
In a later conversation with Mrs Farthing and Mrs Hunt, James also explored the school’s SEND provision and wide-ranging enrichment offer, including music tuition, sports events, performance opportunities, breakfast clubs, and the active parent-teacher association.
Commenting on the visit, James Wild MP said:
“It was a pleasure to visit Walpole Highway Primary where the pupils I met were thoughtful, engaged, and clearly supported by staff committed to nurturing not only their academic progress but also their character and values.“It was encouraging to see how actively Anti-Bullying Week and Children in Need Day were embraced by the pupils and their questions during our Q&A showed a clear understanding of standing together against bullying and helping those in need.
“I will continue to work with the school to explore every avenue of support to help the school provide the enriching, high-quality education all children deserve."
Speaking about James’ visit, Head Pupil, Abie, said:
“When we first heard about your visit, I did not think much of it. However, once our teacher explained who you were, I became quite nervous because I was worried that I might disappoint you. It was great to meet you and ask you lots of questions. The Junior Leadership Team are considering your suggestions on how we could improve our school.”
Another said:
“When you visited our school, I thought you were simply an important person. However, I now realise that your role is vital in helping the world function effectively. I would like to thank you, because you have shown me that I am capable of doing important things without feeling overwhelmed. Thank you.”
