Today, Julia Lopez MP met with the headteacher of Sacred Heart of Mary’s School, Mrs Qurrey, and the senior leadership team in sixth form.

Julia was pleased to hear how Sacred Heart’s pupils managed throughout covid and how the school has nearly completed its return to normality. Julia was keen to hear from the senior leadership team how the pandemic impacted their learning, their resilience, and their preparation for formal exams.

Highlighting concerns with the cost of living, Julia has recently made representations to the Department for Education to ensure that schools and other public buildings are supported with the recent increase in energy costs. Last year, the Prime Minister announced a ten-year rebuilding programme for schools to transform the education for thousands of pupils and Julia is keen for local schools concerns to be heard by government during this difficult period. Julia welcomes that Sacred Heart received Condition Improvement Funding for an upgrade to their heating and electrical systems.

Having been given a tour of the school, Julia was pleased to speak with a year twelve film studies student about the nature of their course and the skills they are developing. There is significant investment being made in the film and television industry with Dagenham being the site of a new film studios. This will benefit many keen filmmakers, producers, animators, and those seeking employment in this vibrant industry in Hornchurch and Upminster.

Julia later met with Rachel at the Jungle Tots nursery in Hornchurch to see first-hand the exciting provision and support they give to local mums. The nursery has erupted in popularity following covid restrictions and it was fantastic to see so many mums and children using the facility.