This week I was delighted to learn that Manland School in Harpenden has ranked in the top 1% of primary schools for phonics, after 100% of their pupils passed the phonics screening test. This is fantastic news - and a credit to all the hardworking teachers at the school. Well done everyone!
We all know that the Red Lion in Preston is a fantastic pub - and the Countryside Alliance agrees. That's why they are nominated to be Pub of the Year. Give them your support here!
Disposable vapes have driven an alarming rise in children vaping. That's why I am proud to support the Government's decision to ban disposable vapes in the UK - helping to protect our children's health. Find out more in the video.
Pharmacy First is a fantastic initiative - allowing pharmacists to do more and helping to cut waiting lists by reducing pressure on GPs. Find out more about what this means for us in Hitchin, Harpenden and the villages in the video!
While my job as Economic Secretary to the Treasury often involves focusing on granular areas of financial services policy, I also know that it's more important than ever that we continue to get the basics right.
Your views shape my work. On Saturday I was back out with my team in Shefford to speak to local people about their priorities. Lots of very positive conversations - thank you to everyone who took the time to speak to us.
It was great to meet residents in Arlesey at the village hall on Friday evening. A really productive discussion - with lots of issues for me to take away.
On Friday I was at Hitchin Girls' School as part of their Be Internet Citizens workshops today. It is vitally important that young people are given the tools that they need to thrive online and I was very happy to help them kick off the day!
