SCHOOLS across Newport were praised this month by the education secretary as ‘Pioneer Schools’ which are helping to forge and develop the new curriculum in Wales. I was delighted to see that schools in my constituency of Newport East and across the city as a whole were highlighted for the excellent work they are doing as Pioneer Schools in design, development and digital competence. The efforts of our schools in Newport are providing the next generation the skills they need to become creative, healthy and confident individuals. The schools across Newport that were praised for their achievements included St Julian’s Primary, Glan Usk Primary, Langstone Primary, Ysgol Casnewydd, Eveswell Primary and Caldicot School. Further details on the Pioneer School developments can be found here: http://gov.wales/docs/dcells/publications/150630-pioneer-schools-en.pdf

I WAS pleased to be invited by Mencap Cymru to open their ‘Hidden Now Heard’ exhibition at the Riverfront this month. The exhibition aims to highlight the previously unseen lives of those people who lived and worked in Llanfrechfa Grange Hospital. This is an important exhibition not just as an opportunity to hear directly from people with a learning disability and about a significant part of our history, but to celebrate the valuable contributions people with a learning disability now make in our communities. I was particularly pleased that the Welsh Government was able to provide financial support to Mencap Cymru and the Hidden Now Heard Project with a £18,000 grant. The exhibition is free to visit and runs until Friday.

THIS weekend saw the inaugural city centre park run. I often take part in the park runs around Tredegar House and was glad to hear that now there’s a chance to enjoy exercise in the city centre. The 5km run is organised by volunteers and is free for anyone to join in, whatever their pace. It is a great opportunity to get out in the fresh air and improve your fitness, all topped off with a cup of tea at the finish line.

FINALLY, I am visiting Newport Night Shelter to see the first-hand the great work that is done by Newport Night Shelter. During the winter months the most vulnerable in our city need as much help as possible and the night shelter offer not only warm food and somewhere to stay but most importantly support which is tailored to each individual’s needs. Newport Night Shelter were delighted at the number of people who have volunteered this year and have reached their maximum number for 2016/17. You can still offer your support for their partner charity, Eden Gate, and the other varied outreaches to the city of Newport (e.g. Sunday Munch, Street Church, First Contact). For more information on how to get involved please email info@edengate.org.uk