Blog report from Graham Robb

Sedgefield
It has ben a busy day on the campaign trail. I started in Chilton meeting people and delivering leaflets, once again the message from the doorstep is one of undecided voters who have lots of different reasons to be unhappy with Labour.

This afternoon I was joined by William Hague at Hurworth School, it was a real inspiration to hear Eamon Farrar explain the methods that took the school from only 38% pass rate at GSCE to 93%. William and I thorough endorse his entire approach which involves streaming and 'assertive mentoring', that is setting targets for individual children and ensuring staff, pupils and parents try their best to attain them.

The big issue at Hurworth School is money to refurbish and renew. The Government has a 'building for schools' budget worth billions. The criteria for this money is set by central Government, the money is paid to local authories which hand it out to schools depending on the Government criteria. I oppose the idea of setting the criteria centrally; it has meant Hurworth missing out for years. I saw the totally inadequate fitness facitilies. A tiny gym, old and run down changing rooms and pitches prone to flooding. Investment is needed urgently. When Labour tell you about new schools and hospitals in this by-election just remember Hurworth School - great results pathetic buildings - some other schools have great buildings and poor results. Why can't we get the best of both worlds, great buildings and great results?
Sedgefield Conservatives