As we approach the return of students to schools across West Dorset, I recognise this is an exciting time for many but also a daunting one for some.

For many children it will be their first time back in the classroom since lockdown began.

To support this transition the Government has launched its ‘back to school safely’ campaign and schools have received guidance on protective measures they should implement to be as safe as possible. Dorset Council has gathered some useful resources to help pupils and families prepare and you’ll find more details on my website at www.chrisloder.co.uk/back-to-school

Last week we saw local pupils receive their GCSE results, which were awarded on the basis of either the Ofqual calculated grade or teacher-assessed grades from their school or college, whichever were highest. It has been a difficult and challenging academic year but our young people have shown great resilience and I congratulate them all on their results.

During lockdown, I took to my bicycle again, as I know many of us did. Government has recognised this trend with a £2 billion initiative to support greener, more active transport. This year’s Ride + Stride on Saturday 12th September, is another opportunity to get on your bike, or take a stroll, to help raise much needed funds for the maintenance of our historic churches. Do sign up to take part on the Dorset Historic Churches Trust website at www.dhct.org.uk and perhaps I will see you on the route.

Finally, I’m pleased to see the real transformation that’s happening at Dorset County Museum and proud that this leading cultural and heritage centre will be opening right here in West Dorset early next year. Despite the challenges faced with the pandemic, the multi-million-pound refurbishment has now reached a milestone with the topping out of the roof, which is testimony to much hard work behind the scenes.

CHRIS LODER

MP FOR WEST DORSET