Weston's MP to host Summer School for young people

⁠Local MP Dan Aldridge is launching Weston-super-Mare's first ever 'MP Summer School', a new initiative designed to inspire, educate, and empower young people aged 14-18. With workshops, hands-on sessions, and inspirational talks covering tech, media, politics, campaigning, artificial intelligence, and creative arts, the summer school aims to help young people build skills, discover new careers, and broaden their horizons-right here in the heart of Weston.

The summer school is a response to growing concerns about local opportunities after age 16. In Weston, just 27.7% of 18-year-olds applied to university last year-the lowest rate since 2013 and below the national average of 32%. But it’s not just about university - participation in college courses and apprenticeships in the town is also low, limiting the routes available for young people to gain skills, qualifications, and access to meaningful careers.

Dan Aldridge said; “Our young people deserve better. That’s why I’ve launched this summer school-to raise aspirations, unlock potential, and show local teens just how far they can go with the right education, training, networks and employment.

I am thrilled that our flagship Tourism attraction The Grand Pier has kindly agreed to host the Summer School and the Ascot Group will make sure the young people get fed and watered while they learn and build their skills.”

Weston's MP is also working closely with local schools, colleges, and training providers to champion a range of successful routes, including apprenticeships, vocational training, and self-employment. The goal is to ensure that every young person-whether they want to go to college, university, learn a trade, or start a business-feels supported and empowered to pursue their ambitions.

Participants in the Weston MP Summer School will:

· Explore new skills through hands-on learning

· Discover career paths in emerging industries

· Hear from inspiring speakers, including industry leaders, MPs, and global companies

· Network with professionals and peers

· Build confidence and develop leadership, creative, and digital skills

Whether you’re passionate about science and tech, campaigning, politics, community engagement, creativity, leadership or social media, this summer school is a chance to gain real-world insight, experience, and inspiration.

The 2-day event will take place between 10 am - 5 pm on the 31st July & 1st August.

Are you 14-18 and eager to get involved? You can register your interest here