Visiting schools

Over the last week visiting schools has been the most prominent engagement in the mayoral diary and in the last week I've visited eight schools across Merton. After all that you'd think I'd have had enough of going to schools, but nothing could be further from the truth, and I've found many of my visits to be both inspiring and in some cases even inspirational.

The events I've attended have varied, but include various prize givings and attending end of year productions. This year also see the first intake who've been at primary schools from reception to year six, this followed a reorganisation of Merton schools a few years ago which saw Merton move the age of transfer to 11. For many headteachers it's also an emotional time as they've now seen children coming in at 4 and leaving now, at 11, for secondary.

Many of the end of year productions I've seen have been first class, and it is clear hours of work have gone into them. Likewise the prize givings have been very rewarding, one child was given an award for 100% attendance from reception class to year six, 21 terms without missing a day of school, a quite remarkable achievement. Also as well, I have given out various prizes for achievement in schools be it in sport, music, IT, science, maths, english etc, but also awards for behaviour and attendance.

In many schools it is quite clear that the teachers have done a remarkable job, and I've found them to be both dedicated and committed to the education of their children. Likewise many parents have been very supportive of schools and have been present to share the success of their children. I hope both teachers and students enjoy a well deserved Summer break ready for another school year in September, my best wishes also goes to all those students transferring to high school in September.

Mitcham Eastfields station opening

Last Thursday, I attended the opening of the new Mitcham Eastfields Station in Mitcham - the first new to station to open in Outer London since the war. At the opening was various dignatries including the Minister, Tom Harris MP, Siobhain Mc Donagh MP, Council leader David Williams and councillors. Also in attendance was representatives from Network Rail, Southern, First Captial Connect and Tfl.

Although it was the official opening, the station has been operating now for over seven weeks. As a local resident, and someone who commutes to London for work I have found the station has made my journey to work that much easier, and quicker. I have also noticed the increased usage at the station, the 0807 which I catch regularly to work usually has over 100 people waiting to board, the station has certainly proved to be a great success in a short period of time.

With the new station, it has also put Mitcham on the map and made it much more accessible to the outside world. It has taken over 70 years' for the new station to happen, but at last it's here and making a real difference locally.