Pupils tell MP why every child deserves an education

Upper Bann MP David Simpson with Banbridge High School pupils, alongside Mr Bell (Principal) and Mrs Denver (Teacher).

Fifteen years ago 110 million children across the world were missing out on school, however, the long running campaign Send My Friend to School has contributed to reducing this figure to 58 million.

Mr Simpson “looks forward to hearing the individual contributions” of pupils as they collect signatures for their petition, which is delivered by the local MP on their behalf to the Prime Minister.

Speaking after the event, Mr Simpson said: “I am a keen supporter of the UK’s commitment on aid and today we are doing more than ever before to help the poorest people in the world.

“We should all be proud that we have supported 11 million children and their right to an education thanks to UK aid.

“The UK’s aid commitment is transforming lives. And children across Upper Bann involved in this campaign are part of that difference.

“I want to give my personal thanks to all the schoolchildren in Banbridge High School who have presented me with their work.

“I always look forward to hearing each individual contribution and it is with great pride that I will deliver their work to No 10.

“I also want to thank Mrs Denver for all the work that she does coordinating this campaign within the school and again it was a pleasure to be invited back.”