We were pleased and honoured to welcome Rt Hon Lord Jim Knight of Weymouth (OE 1983) back to his old school to give a lunchtime talk this week to Politics and Economics students and staff, as part of the regular series of Politics and Economics Society events. 

In a career that spans several decades, Lord Jim Knight shared his experiences and insights as a peer, MP, government minister and educational expert.  Taking part in a “Q and A” format led by Mr Chesterton, Head of Politics, and Ms Hampton-Armstrong, Teacher of Economics, with questions also asked by several of the 30 or so students attending, he also offered thoughts and suggestions about the current labour market and how to improve prospects for all young people.   

His talk was wide-ranging but covered themes such as political campaigning in a marginal seat, life as an MP, working with ministerial colleagues around the Cabinet table, options for House of Lords reform, as well as the importance of training and education in helping people to find jobs and to reduce unemployment. 

Guy Sanderson, Headmaster said: “Those who attended Lord Knight’s talk found it absolutely fascinating.  The school is also very grateful for the active work Lord Knight does to support our Old Elthamians network for both current and former students.”