Local MP Maria Miller made a regular visit to Dove House, a specialist secondary school for children with moderate learning difficulties, with a current ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted. Dove House is a much-loved part of Basingstoke's network of schools, and the school’s aim is to ensure that all students grow into well rounded young adults able to live independent lives.
At the school Maria met headteacher David Dupont and Sharon Burt, CEO of Solent Academies Trust to discuss plans for the coming transition.
Maria said, “Dove House has a strong track record over many years, providing support to hundreds of young people throughout north and mid Hampshire. The school is now looking forward to a new partnership with Solent Academies Trust after being an Independent Academy for several years. Solent has expert experience supporting schools like Dove House and its clear that a great deal of thought is being put into ensuring the coming transition is positive both for Solent and for the pupils, staff, and families of Dove House."
Maria also met Dove House pupils who are members of the School's Council. She added, “I had the opportunity to meet members of the School Council, and we discussed my role in Parliament, their concerns about the war in Ukraine, and the rising cost of living. We also talked about what makes Basingstoke a great place and how we could make the town an even better place to live. Better shops in Festival Place, less potholes and more soft play areas were hot topics as well as more bins in parks to ensure animals don’t get injured by litter.
“Dove House is proud to be rated as 'Outstanding' by Ofsted. I want every school in Basingstoke to be 'Good' or 'Outstanding' to make sure every child has the opportunity of an excellent education'.