Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson takes on youngsters at badminton in visit to Wolverhampton youth centre

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson challenged youngsters to a game of badminton when she visited an Easter holiday club being held at a Wolverhampton youth centre.

Miss Phillipson was joined by Wolverhampton MP Warinder Juss for an impromptu knock-up when she dropped in at The Way Youth Zone.

She also chatted to youngsters who were taking part in a drawing exercise, and was told by a 14-year-old girl how the centre’s climbing activities had helped boost her confidence and develop her skills to the point where she was now able to assist leaders.

Also taking part in the visit was Richard Parker, elected mayor for the West Midlands.

Miss Phillipson said the Government had committed to running holiday programmes for youngsters at The Way for the next three years,

She said school holidays were ‘a big pressure point’ for working parents who had to arrange care for youngsters.

Schemes such as the one at The Way meant parents were able to work and contribute to the economy, while their children could take part in activities they might not otherwise be able to experience, she said.

“The youngsters have told me how life-changing it is to come here, to take part in activities, and the experiences they just wouldn’t have otherwise,” said Miss Phillipson..

“We’re determined to make sure young people have every chance to succeed, regardless of background, that where you’re from shouldn’t determine what you want to achieve in life

“I’m really pleased that through the funding we’re putting in to support families over the school holidays, more young people are able to not only take part in sport and craft activities, but also have trusted adults they can turn to when things might be difficult at home.”