West Worcestershire MP Dame Harriett Baldwin has praised the work of teachers and pupils at a rural school during a visit last week.

The MP visited Elmley Castle First School to chat to students and their teachers and had a meeting with head teacher Rachel Penney and governors to listen to some of the challenges they are facing running a rural school.

Elmley Castle First School is the smallest school in Dame Harriett’s constituency with fewer than 100 pupils attending but demand for places remains extremely high.

Dame Harriett said:

“It was wonderful to visit Elmley Castle First School which the smallest school in my patch and yet it has a giant reputation in the area.

“The school is really buzzing and that is tribute to the dedication and ambition of head teacher Rachel and her team.

“I took the time to chat to and thank the teachers and governors for their hard work delivering the best possible start for our young people and I have raised some of their specific concerns with the relevant government bodies.”

Head teacher Rachel Penney added:

“We were delighted to welcome Dame Harriett Baldwin to our school and to have the opportunity to share the fantastic work happening here at Elmley Castle First School.

“Our dedicated team works incredibly hard to create a nurturing and inspiring learning environment, and it was wonderful to see that reflected in Dame Harriett’s visit.

“We are passionate about providing the best possible education for our children, and we appreciate the support in addressing the unique challenges that come with being a small rural school.”

Photo: Head teacher Rachel Penney , Charlie Moseley, Cosmo B-R, Dame Harriett Baldwin MP, Isabella Cook, Liv Dent-Ludlow and Katy Rooke, chair of Governors.