Sometimes my job is almost overwhelmingly amazing, like just now when I threw open the doors of parliament to students who have achieved fantastic success despite having to overcome huge challenges.
The Student of The Year awards are given to students whose success has been inspirational and I hosted the finalists, along with their families and teachers, in one of parliament’s poshest rooms.
Speaking to the students was a real privilege. One had gone from terrible family circumstances which left him sleeping rough to studying law at Cambridge where he is now. Another left school without any qualifications but seized an apprenticeship opportunity which unlocked newfound skills that ended with him representing Britain at the WorldSkills competition in Sao Paulo. Story after story brings a lump to the throat and each of them are being rewarded not just for their own achievements but also for the way they have inspired others too. I was certainly one of those being inspired.
Thanks to the Association of Colleges who allowed me to work with them on the awards and to host these remarkable students in parliament. This building was truly the better for their presence. All the best, Peter