Portsmouth MP Amanda Martin reflects on her first year in office, highlighting school visits across the city and Labour’s education achievements including expanded childcare provision and improved school attendance rates.
Looking back on twelve months representing Portsmouth constituents, the Labour MP says her most cherished experiences have come through visiting local schools, from New Horizons in North End to St Pauls in Paulsgrove.
“I’ve been questioned by pupils, observed their learning and play, and seen the benefits of their free breakfast programmes,” Martin said. “My proudest achievements this year stem from how this Labour government has delivered for these young people – my youngest constituents – and their families.”
Early Years Investment
Martin criticised the previous Conservative government for leaving behind unfunded promises, citing insufficient nurseries, early years educators, and funding. However, she highlighted Labour’s commitment to delivering government-funded childcare, expanding from 15 hours to 30 hours this September, providing working parents with annual savings of £7,500.
“No previous government has prioritised early years education to this extent, because we believe Portsmouth’s children deserve the finest possible start in life,” she stated.
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School Improvements
Beyond addressing crumbling school infrastructure, Martin emphasised internal improvements. The government has tackled attendance issues, with 140,000 fewer persistently absent pupils and over three million additional school days gained. Teacher recruitment has increased by 2,300, with 1,000 more in training programmes.
Labour has fulfilled manifesto commitments by removing private school tax exemptions, generating £1.8 billion for public services. The party has served two million breakfasts through free breakfast clubs, enhanced mental health support, and lifted 100,000 children from poverty by expanding free school meal provision.
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Skills and Training
Post-education support focuses on empowering working people through opportunity creation and economic growth. Labour’s reforms, including reduced bureaucracy and prioritising young domestic talent, will establish 120,000 new training opportunities in future industries.
Martin acknowledged remaining challenges, particularly addressing issues affecting white working-class children and those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). She expressed confidence in Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson’s determination to tackle these generational problems.
“Since joining the House of Commons, I’ve championed Portsmouth residents whilst ensuring children’s voices are heard in the Chamber,” Martin concluded. “After one year, I pledge to intensify my efforts ensuring every Portsmouth child receives the best possible start through Labour’s Plan for Change.”
