Natasha Asghar MS visited St Andrew's Primary School in Jenkins Street, Newport to find out more about the big building programme before being interviewed by pupils at the school’s very own Radio REACH.
Mrs Nowaczyk, Assistant Headteacher, talked Natasha through the building plan and timeframe for the work, which includes spacious new classrooms, and all the benefits for pupils and staff when the build is completed next year.
The next part of the visit took place at St Andrew's Primary School’s Newport Connect Centre. Year 6 pupils, Seren and Bella who have the important prefect role of First Ministers, confidently formed the welcoming party when Natasha arrived, alongside Deputy Headteacher Mrs Charles.
Seren and Bella guided the MS for South East Wales and Shadow Minister for Transport and Technology to the Radio REACH studio and enthusiastically explained the programme schedule and what their roles as DJs entailed.
Once inside in the studio, the Year 5 ‘News Dudes’ and investigative journalists, Hannah, Alisha and Lillie ushered Natasha to the table set with microphones and technical kit. The trio began the interview under the guidance of Miss Price, the lead teacher for Radio REACH.
Natasha said: “The pupils had clearly undertaken a lot of background research on me! I spotted my photo and career history up on the wall and they posed some searching questions ranging from who inspired me to go into politics (my dad), what I was working on at the moment (20mph and travel card for Wales), my hobbies (extreme sports), and a fun quick-fire round including music choices (Ed Sheeran, Ariana Grande, Adele) and sporting preferences (rugby) among other revelations!
Lillie, Alisha and Hannah were impressive interviewers. They were engaged, confident and clearly relished the opportunity to prep, plan and record their interviews. I was very impressed indeed and they kept me on the edge of my seat!” added Natasha.
Miss Price said: “We were all thrilled to welcome Natasha to our school and studio. The pupils really enjoyed interviewing her; she was so encouraging and supportive and they all said how interesting her job as an MS sounded. We definitely have some radio presenters and potentially some future politicians here in our school!”
Natasha added: “I was so pleased to support and take part in the Radio REACH initiative and commend the teachers for creating the opportunity for pupils to explore and experience the world of media.”
Enjoy the interview via this link St Andrew's Primary School | Newport | Wales (standrews.wales)