'Visit By David To South Tyneside College'

What have David Miliband, MP for South Shields and Minister for Education, Pauline Piddington, Principal of South Tyneside College, and Vicky Jones, an A Level student at the College, got in common?

The answer? All are striving to achieve educational excellence in South Tyneside.

David Miliband recently visited South Tyneside College to see for himself how the College's flexible approach to 14 - 19 education is benefiting students in the area. David met new College Principal Pauline Piddington, who explained to him that as part of its commitment to making a tangible contribution to the transformation of South Tyneside, the College is now looking at delivering a curriculum that recognises and responds to pupils' individual needs and interests.

Vicky Jones, studying A-levels in Maths, Chemistry, Physics and Biology, is taking advantage of the College's flexible approach to learning to further her aspirations to become in international tennis star. Vicky hopes to use her A-Levels to win a place at university in Knoxville Tennessee, where she can indulge her passion for tennis while studying for a degree.

As part of his visit to South Tyneside College, David Miliband met Vicky, and was impressed by her dedication to achieving both her academic and sporting goals.

David Miliband said, "Vicky is a talented individual, and it is fantastic that South Tyneside College can offer her the opportunity to achieve her dreams. I wish her every success in her endeavours, and hope to see her as a future Wimbledon Champion".