Girls and boys at the English Martyrs Catholic Primary, led diligently and caringly by Dr Helen Townsley, asked me to present to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak over one hundred letters from the children asking the government to Prepare, Protect, Invest and Act to improve the future of the 222 million children whose right to education has been disrupted.
The very next day, I was pleased to present the letters to the Prime Minister at an event at Chequers. He viewed the letters with interest, praised the work of the students and committed to addressing these concerns.
Last week, while at Downing Street, I passed the letters onto the Prime Minister's private team to review and to action.
We have to overcome the effects of natural disasters, conflict and discrimination against girls. It is right that the United Kingdom take a leading role in this important global campaign.
Local students and teachers I have met recently continue to inspire in me the importance of a good education for all.
All schools are invited to get involved with the Send My Friend campaign - visit http://sendmyfriend.org/ for a free teaching resource pack with everything needed to take action on this important issue.
While I can't promise to be meeting with the Prime Minister every week, I can promise to continue to take action and campaign for what is right.
