A newly elected MP has started her schools tour with a visit to The Catholic High School, Chester.

Aphra Brandreth MP, who represents Chester South and Eddisbury, chose the school for her first visit of the constituency-wide tour.

The visit was aimed at understanding and appreciating the school's efforts in equipping students with the necessary skills for academic and technical success.

During her visit, the MP met with headteacher Cathryn McKeagney, whose leadership has played a significant role in the school's achievements.

The Catholic High School was recently rated as 'Good' by Ofsted.

The meeting between the MP and the headteacher also served as an opportunity to celebrate the school's recent 'excellent' GCSE, A-Level, and Level 3 results.

Many students who applied to universities were accepted onto courses at their first-choice institutions, many of which are Russell Group rated.

Ms Brandreth praised the school's staff for their 'dedication and tireless efforts' during the busy exam period.

She also commended them for ensuring that every student is equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary for further education.

The MP and the headteacher also discussed the school's emphasis on technical training.

The Catholic High School has introduced new Level 3 alternative courses, including apprenticeships, to address the 'evolving demands' of the job market and support students in finding the best career paths to suit their skills.

Ms Brandreth said: "I wanted to come to The Catholic High School in Chester for the first visit of my schools tour.

"This school is new to the Chester South and Eddisbury constituency following the recent boundary changes, and it was great to have the opportunity to introduce myself as the school's new local MP.

"I am incredibly impressed by the hard work that all the staff put in at the school, which is reflected in the recent excellent exam results.

"It is evident that pupils at the school enjoy their education, something which is so important for success in later life.

"I want to pay tribute to the headteacher, Cathryn McKeagney, in particular, for fostering an environment where students can thrive academically and for taking the time to get to know each and every student and ensuring that they have the tools they need to succeed in life after education."

Headteacher Cathryn McKeagney said: "Can I add how supported we all felt with Ms Brandreth's visit and her commitment to education in our area.

"If we all place the children at the centre of everything we do today, then we face a brighter tomorrow."