Shadow Cabinet Minister for Women with shared oversight for Equalities and Co-Chair of the APPG for Men and Boys.
Students from Heathfield were pleased last week to host a discussion with Mims Davies, visiting college further to meeting Headteacher, Caroline Barlow at a Westminster discussion event. Mims generously gave her time to outline to students her role in politics and to explain the work of an APPG (All Party Parliamentary Group).
Students were interested to hear the work of the shadow cabinet, covering the work of all the portfolios of government office (around 140 different areas). Mims currently serves as Shadow Minister for Women and Equalities and Shadow Secretary of State for Wales; she has previously held a range of ministerial positions between 2015 – 2024 under the Conservative governments.
In explaining how different aspects of government operates, including Select Committees on which she has served, Mims detailed the work of an All-Party Parliamentary Group. It was explained that these are cross-party groups working on issues of collective importance, they initiate investigations and evidence collection. Mims explained the work of the APPG for Men and Boys has been concerned with social mobility and parity of experience in the light of evidence they had received about men and boys as well as girls.
In terms of education and how young people grew up, the students then engaged in a broad and engaging discussion that covered a wide range of topics including:
- The educational gender gap between boys and girls
- Challenges around gender equality
- Perceptions of young men in modern society
- The impact of lockdown
- The effects of social media, influencers and algorithms as well as effective ways of addressing concerns
- The role of parents and role models or mentors
It was a broad and far-reaching discussion in which the students listened, responded and challenged. Mims described the students’ contributions as considered and articulate, impressed with the resources and support at college that students described. As well as voicing an appreciation for their experience at college, students also clearly valued the role of their parents and the discussions they were able to have – whilst understanding this may not be the case for all young people.
Heathfield Community College, is engaging in this national debate from the basis of a consistent track record of success in boys’ attainment and engagement, sharing our experience and learning from the work we have done. It is clear that as well as high expectations and academic support, it is the sense of community, connections and sense of belonging that means both boys and girls are able to succeed and thrive here. All are valued, all are supported to be their best and all are valued for the role they play in both the College and their wider community.
