MPs visit Dorset Studio School for UK Parliament Week

It came as three Dorset MPs paid a visit to the Dorset Studio School on the Kingston Maurward Campus, near Dorchester.

MP for West Dorset Edward Morello, MP for South Dorset Lloyd Hatton, and MP for Mid-Dorset and North Poole Vikki Slade, were welcomed by students and staff and given a tour as part of UK Parliament Week.

The visit was also made to recognise the growth of the school over its 10 years. It is a thriving 11-16 mainstream school for students who wish to pursue careers in the Land and Environment Sectors. 

Students go on to become professionals in Equine Care, Veterinary Nursing, Farming, Rural Craft, Environmental and Countryside Management, as well as a host of other related careers.

Edward Morello MP at Dorset Studio School (Image: Dorset Studio School) During the tour, student guides gave details to the politicians of how the school could continue to develop if promised facilities were improved. The school is currently operating on a split site, with space limited.

Lloyd Hatton MP with a student at Dorset Studio School (Image: Dorset Studio School) Commenting on this, Mr Morello, said: “It's a fantastic institution that is disadvantaged due to the lack of facilities.”

After the tour, staff expressed to the MPs the importance of achieving a new build to further enhance the school and take advantage of the 750-acre campus at Kingston Maurward.

Vikki Slade said: “It's been inspiring to see the love of learning and passion of students as well as staff.”

Vikki Slade MP with students at Dorset Studio School (Image: Dorset Studio School) Chair of Governors Andy Daw said, “During its short history the school has continued to go from strength to strength.

"A new building will enable us to take the important next steps towards providing a world class education for our students."

He added: “We are very grateful for the support of Members of Parliament from across Dorset.”

UK Parliament Week is an annual event, spreading the word about what Parliament is, what it does and how people can get involved.