One of the most enjoyable elements of my role as the Solihull West and Shirley MP is the opportunity to meet with school children. In a job that is often characterised by debate, deadlines, and decisions, time spent with young people provides a welcome reminder of why public service matters. Their questions are direct, their curiosity is genuine, and their optimism is infectious.
Recently, I had a particularly memorable Monday morning journey to Parliament. Oak Cottage Primary School were travelling down to visit Westminster and, by coincidence, I happened to be in the same carriage on the train. It was a delight to share that journey with them, and to hear their enthusiasm as the capital drew nearer. They spoke about what they hoped to see, their eagerness at seeing how Parliament works, and about the ideas they had been exploring in class. Their excitement was unmistakable, and it was a pleasure to witness their sense of anticipation, pride, and wonder.
That experience is not unique. Whenever I visit the numerous fantastic schools across Solihull West and Shirley, I am struck by the same qualities; energy, imagination, and thoughtful engagement. Our teachers, teaching assistants, and school leaders do remarkable work creating environments in which children are encouraged to read widely, to question confidently, and to develop their own perspectives. Education is not only about examination results, important though they are, but about cultivating character, resilience, and curiosity of spirit.
In recent weeks, I met with representatives of the National Literacy Trust, and our discussion reinforced the importance of reading in particular. Literacy is the gateway skill. It underpins progress across the curriculum, strengthens communication, and opens up opportunities that might otherwise remain out of reach. When children develop a love of reading early on, they gain the confidence of expression, a depth of understanding, and a breadth of imagination. Capturing that early spark of curiosity can shape attitudes to learning for a lifetime.
Every time I meet with pupils, whether in Westminster or back home in Solihull, I am reminded that curiosity is absolutely foundational. It is why this year I am launching a campaign to encourage more young people to read. If we nurture that curiosity carefully, support it consistently, and celebrate it openly, we equip young people not only to succeed in school, but to contribute to our community, our country, and our shared future.
