Councillor Amanda Hack, the Labour parliamentary candidate for North West Leicestershire has visited Cape Cabin Alternative Education Provision to learn more about the support offered at the site and the challenges affecting young people and their families.

Cape Cabin is an alternative educational support base in Moira offering academic and pastoral provision for children who find mainstream school challenging.  The centre is often used alongside school or home-learning, providing personalised academic support in a nurturing environment. As well as studying English, Maths, Modern Foreign Languages and Science up to GCSE level, students can sit a range of AQA exams at the centre.

Cllr Hack met students during a GCSE Citizenship class, in which the students asked questions about her role as a County Councillor and parliamentary candidate. Students, parents and teachers also discussed issues facing children who find mainstream school challenging, sharing insights and ideas for change.

Cllr Amanda Hack said:

“Cape Cabin is an inspirational centre run by a team of dedicated staff.  It was a privilege to meet the young people, teachers and parents and to be given such a warm welcome. I really enjoyed meeting the students to discuss politics and talk about ways that the education system could be improved to be more inclusive. I’m very grateful to everyone who shared their experiences with me.

“So many young people are being failed by the current education system and families are being let down by overburdened, ineffective processes when it comes to getting support and funding. The effect on families can be devastating and I am determined to see this change. Cape Cabin is an inspiring example of how education can be approached differently with the student treated as an individual and supported in a way that builds confidence and helps them thrive.”

Teacher Jennie said:

“It was refreshing to welcome a local politician who came across as genuinely interested, concerned and informed about the challenges of the current education system, also acknowledging the struggles encountered by ever-increasing numbers of young people and their families as they battle their way through the minefield of hurdles and bureaucracy, in order to gain access to an appropriate education package.”

Students commented on the session:

“Amanda was very nice and really understanding. I found it interesting to hear what she had to say about her career in politics.”

“She wasn’t how I thought a politician would be. She was just normal, interested and listened to us properly.”

Parents also gave their feedback:

“I think it was an amazing session. Amanda had lots of empathetic stories to share and the students all felt comfortable in her presence.”

“I thought Amanda came across very well – she actually seemed to ‘get it!’ I would like to see her on a cross-party committee addressing inclusion and Alternative Provision. I thought that one student’s point about Alternative Provision being an actual alternative and not a last resort in the system, was excellent.”