NORTHWICH’s MP was grilled on some of the burning issues that are concerning young people at St Nicholas High School.

Mike Amesbury, MP for Weaver Vale, met with staff from the school to discuss a variety of education issues, including the Government’s Apprenticeship Levy

The Labour councillor then joined the Student Council at the Hartford school for a Question and Answer session.

The school’s student body tackled a wide range of topics during the session, which Mr Amesbury called ‘one of the most challenging rounds of questioning’ he has encountered since becoming an MP.

Mr Amesbury said: “I was really pleased to meet staff and students at St Nicholas RC School in Hartford.

“I spoke to senior staff about a number of concerns, including funding, curriculum reform, and the effect of the Apprenticeship Levy on schools – many of which I have been raising in Parliament.

“I was then grilled by the school council – and I can honestly say the quality, depth and thought behind their questions made it one of the most challenging rounds of questioning I’ve encountered in my time as an MP.

“I was quizzed on Brexit, Foreign Relations, LGBTQI+ rights, mental health provision, education and university funding, routes into politics, votes at 16, and transport for young people.

“I was delighted to speak to them, and from what I experienced I’m confident they all have a very bright future ahead of them.”

Richard Woods, St Nicholas High School head teacher, said the MP left a good impression on students.

“Mike gave us some great answers,” he said. “It was clear that he was passionate about being an MP and took our concerns seriously.

“He spoke about supporting Young People and transport as fare costs was raised as a big concern for young people in the area.

“It was an amazing opportunity to get an insight into the life of an MP and the important work that he does.”