Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst, Member of Parliament for Solihull West & Shirley, was delighted to attend a special end-of-term assembly at St Alphege Junior School in Solihull, where he presented awards to students in recognition of their outstanding efforts and achievements.
During the assembly, Dr Shastri-Hurst had the privilege of awarding the following trophies to inspirational and hardworking students: Lower KS2, Upper KS2, Art, and the Head Teacher Award. The local MP also presented the school with certificates for children who took part in his space-themed Walk to School Week challenge, which ran from the 19th to 23rd May. The initiative encouraged children across the constituency to embrace active travel by walking to school each day, promoting healthier lifestyles and environmental awareness.
Dr. Shastri-Hurst had the opportunity to engage with the Student Leadership Team, who shared insights into the wide range of student-led clubs and extracurricular initiatives that enrich school life. This was followed by a guided tour of the school grounds, including a visit to the nature garden, a key space supporting the school’s outdoor learning programme. During the visit, the Solihull West & Shirley MP was presented with a letter from Year 3 students, in which they expressed their concerns about deforestation and their strong commitment to protecting the environment.
Reflecting on the visit, Dr Shastri-Hurst said:
It was an enormous pleasure to join the vibrant community at St Alphege Junior School, there was a real sense of community. The energy and enthusiasm of the students, the support of their families, and the dedication of the teaching staff was wonderful to see. I was particularly pleased to present awards to children who were recognised for their outstanding efforts and contribution to the school.
"During my visit, I was delighted to receive a thoughtfully crafted letter from students highlighting the urgent issue of deforestation. I intend to raise their concerns directly with the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero in Parliament. Each student will receive a personal response, acknowledging their advocacy and reaffirming my commitment to representing their voices on this critical matter.
Dr. Shastri-Hurst also extended his gratitude to the other nine local primary schools across the Solihull West & Shirley constituency that participated in his Walk to School Challenge.
