It was back to school last week for Cllr Susan Loudon as she went to see rehearsals for Byrchall High’s upcoming performance of “Grease” – and to speak to budding journalists there.
Cllr Loudon, who took up the education portfolio for Wigan Council this year, says she’s eager to hear what young people have to say.
“The next generation are vitally important for our borough and our future,” says Cllr Loudon. “We are working hard to invest and improve standards in education, and I’m delighted to come to Byrchall and meet such an inquiring and positive group of young people.”
Spending the day at the Ashton Secondary School, Cllr Loudon met the student ambassadors, who take the ethos of the school out into the community; they work with various organisations raising funds and caring for others. She was also interviewed by pupils for the school magazine.
Some of the questions the children asked Cllr Loudon:
What are you are passionate about in your role as a Councillor?
Cllr Loudon: “Getting the community involved in their own areas.”
What do you think make lessons enjoyable?
Cllr Loudon: “Supportive teachers and how interesting subjects.”
What memories of Byrchall High will you take away with you today?
Cllr Loudon: “The Grease performance, a friendly school and its relaxed welcoming atmosphere. Thank you.”
The councillor took lunch in the hall whist watching preparations for the musical Grease, which is being staged this week and open to anyone to attend.
Alan Birchall, Headteacher added:
“We welcome the visit of Cllr Loudon to our school and are grateful for her time in what must be a very busy schedule. Her willingness to be interviewed by our pupils provided them with an excellent opportunity to further improve their skills in this area”
The school tour was led by head boy and girl Alex Beddard and Vicky Murphy, who posed with Cllr Loudon for the school’s photographer. Within the hour, the picture had been processed, framed, and presented to her by the head teacher as a memento of the day.
