Visit to South Dartmoor Community College

South Dartmoor Community College in Ashburton is a specialist sports college and Leading Edge School, a designation only given to the top 200 schools in the country. Mike Treleaven, Totnes Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Spokesperson called in to meet the Principle, Ray Tarleton, and take a look at the college.

Mike and Ray had a wide ranging discussion on many of the issues facing secondary schools today including the 14 - 19 curriculum, staff recruitment and the workforce reforms which aim to reduce the administrative burdens on teachers.

Two year 11 students, Felicity Beveridge and Ian Roberts then showed Mike and his wife, Elaine, around the college where they were able to talk to staff and pupils and see the college 'in action'

Commenting on his visit Mike Treleaven said:

'South Dartmoor is a very good College with a committed staff and hard working students. Elaine and I were impressed by the enthusiasm of everyone we met and the opportunities offered. I was particularly keen to note the NVQ provision offered in motor mechanics and catering with fully equipped garage facilities and a catering kitchen able to offer students practical training and work placements leading to jobs when they leave school. The College is making the most of its Specialist Sports Status across the curriculum has an impressive array of sports facilities which are shared with the local community. The sharing of resources is tremendously important in small rural communities and I am delighted that local people are able to benefit.'

He continued:

' South Dartmoor is a truly comprehensive college serving the whole community, which is as it should be. We should be endeavouring to ensure that all schools offer the same high standards so that parents can be safe in the knowledge that their local school provides an excellent education for their children. This is even more important in rural communities where effective choice is a myth.'