From an Olympics showcase to meeting their new MP in Westminster

All the latest news from Kent's schools and colleges

Time to celebrate

Kent School Games finals kicked off in true Olympic style with a celebratory showcase of arts by 200 local pupils.

Sittingbourne’s Fulston Manor School samba band opened the event and five groups from Ashford, Maidstone, Hythe, Tonbridge and Herne Bay each performed a dance piece depicting one of the Olympic and Paralympic values of Inspiration, Personal Excellence, Respect and Friendship, Determination and Courage and Equality.

The Games have seen more than 30,000 pupils competing in heats since the end of last year and it is now thought to be the largest school sports event in Europe.

Olympic gold medal winner Dame Kelly Holmes, who visited her home town for the occasion, said: “I am immensely proud of being from Kent and I have been so moved by seeing these young people and how talented they are. They are all stars.

“It is not always about being the best, but being the best you can be and that’s exactly what this is all about. The children’s efforts should be applauded.”

Sporting inspirations

A group of international sporting heroes visited Rose Hill School in Tunbridge Wells to open its new all-weather astro turf facility. The group, which included hockey player Ashley Jackson (tipped to be golden boy of the 2012 Olympics), ran a coaching session with 35 of the schools pupils.

The World Young Player of the Year said he thought it was great the kids could now play sports in any weather condition.

Pupils swoop into Westminster

Pupils from Maidstone’s Brunswick House Primary had the honour of being the first school to visit their newly elected MP Helen Grant in Westminster.

The group of 61 children was taken on a tour of the Houses of Parliament and enjoyed a special education workshop followed by question and answer time with Helen, who commented: “Children were asked for ideas about new laws and two bold ideas sprang forth; one was to ban smoking and the other to ban school uniform, but somehow I don’t think Parliament will pass either of those bills in a hurry!

“I also got the chance to answer some of their questions, which were just as interesting and thought provoking as their ideas for new legislation.”

Kate is Outstanding

Kate Campion-Smith from Cator Park School in Beckenham has been named Outstanding New Teacher of the Year in London and the South East. The award was given by the Specialist Schools and Academies Trust, whose chief executive, Elizabeth Reid, said: “Kate is a talented teacher whose hard work, enthusiasm and commitment are an inspiration to her students and colleagues.”