ONE OF the borough’s four MPs went back to school, as part of a fact-finding mission for a new sixth form.
Sir John Redwood is planning on taking lessons again, he was visiting Bohunt School in Arborfield to find out more about its plans to open the facility in September 2025.
During his visit, he met headteacher Jen Comber, toured classrooms and met the school council.
He was inspired by what he saw.
“It was good to see the school with plenty of motivational phrases on the walls urging young people to try things out, to contribute, to have views and to get involved,” he said.
“The pupils were working from iPads with teachers having access to individual iPads to help, to see how they are getting on and to mark.
“The School Council members said their big issue had been the wish to have flexibility over the wearing of jumpers with their uniform. They had sounded out fellow students through online questionnaires, had presented a case for reform to the headteacher and reached agreement with teachers.”
Sir John also asked the teenagers about the use of artificial intelligence in learning.
“I argued that trying to get AI to do the work for you cheats yourself, as you need to master the material and know how to provide an answer,” he said.
“I also argued that good use of computers can help with learning as it does with subsequent work. It appeared there was not much use of CHAT GPT or the equivalent.
“I also asked about outings, overnight trips, sports and the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme. It was great to hear how these additional activities are enriching the students’ school experience.
“I wish them all well and was pleased to see positive approaches to what their school offers.”
The sixth form will accommodate 300 pupils when it opens.
The decision, announced last month, will also see the school take on an additional 150 pupils across school years 7 to 11.
The expansion project is a joint effort between Bohunt Education Trust (BET) and Wokingham Borough Council (WBC), with each contributing up to £5.25 million.
At the time, Ms Comber said: “The green light for Bohunt Wokingham Sixth Form is a magnificent milestone on our journey to provide outstanding education, unparalleled opportunities and first-class learning environments for our students.”
