Aspire Academy Trust was delighted to be represented by Helen Bingham, EYFS & Sustainability Lead, at the Department for Education's Summer Ministerial Reception, hosted by Rt Hon Bridget Phillipson MP, Secretary of State for Education.

The reception brought together leaders from academy trusts across the country, alongside organisations and stakeholders working across the education sector. It provided a valuable opportunity to share ideas, strengthen partnerships and discuss the opportunities and challenges facing education.

Among the organisations represented was Magic Breakfast, whose work supporting children through breakfast provision continues to make a significant difference to schools and communities.

The evening also featured an inspiring performance by the University of Reading's Universal Voices Choir, celebrating climate action through music. It was encouraging to hear how climate education and sustainability are becoming increasingly embedded within teacher training, helping to equip the next generation of educators to inspire environmental responsibility.

Guests also heard from Rt Hon Bridget Phillipson MP as she reflected on her first two years as Secretary of State for Education, highlighting the progress made to date and outlining the Government's priorities and ambitions for the future of education.

During the reception, Helen had the opportunity to briefly meet Rt Hon Bridget Phillipson MP, Secretary of State for Education, and Gila Sacks, Director General for Families at the Department for Education. The brief exchange provided an opportunity to highlight Aspire's commitment to expanding school-based nurseries and to suggest that funded childcare hours could be increased from 30 to 32.5 hours per week to better align with the school day and provide greater flexibility for families.

Events such as these provide valuable opportunities for Aspire Academy Trust to build relationships across the education sector, learn from other organisations and educational leaders, and contribute to conversations about the opportunities and challenges facing children, families and schools.