East Norfolk students inspired after ETF parliamentary reception

Two students from East Norfolk Sixth Form College were invited with their principal, Dr Catherine Richards, to attend ETF’s parliamentary reception. The event brought together leaders from across further education and skills, alongside policymakers and sector partners, to discuss T Levels, social value, innovation and employer engagement. 

East Norfolk Sixth Form College also contributed to ETF’s Achieving Social Value in Further Education and Skills report, helping to highlight how the further education (FE) and skills sector drives social, economic, and environmental wellbeing across the UK. Following their evening at the House of Commons, the two students were invited to reflect on their experiences of attending Parliament and representing student perspectives within national conversations about education. 

Lucas Stankevicius  

For people from backgrounds where access to opportunity is limited, Parliament is usually something you only see on television. It is rare to be able to visit and explore this place, let alone actively take part in events there, especially when you do not live nearby. That is why I was incredibly grateful to be invited to the ETF parliamentary reception by my principal. 

What made the experience particularly meaningful was both the event itself and everything around it. Small moments, such as walking around Westminster or visiting the Parliamentary Estate, may seem ordinary to some people. For students like me, they are unique experiences that broaden perspective and build confidence. They help you feel part of something bigger, which can raise aspirations and strengthen belief in what is possible. 

When we entered the Thames Pavilion for the reception, I initially felt intimidated. Students do not often attend networking events, so I was very aware of how to behave, who to talk to and what tone to use. At first, I felt out of place. However, it quickly became clear that people were welcoming, approachable and genuinely interested in my experiences. 

As my confidence grew, I was able to speak about the opportunities I have had at East Norfolk Sixth Form College and my future plans to study in the United States. I valued hearing from education leaders and policymakers who are working to improve access to opportunity for students from less advantaged backgrounds. 

Being able to share my own journey, including my involvement in social mobility programmes, directly with people shaping education policy was incredibly meaningful. It reassured me that student voices are valued and that there is a genuine commitment to breaking down barriers to opportunity. 

Bailey Moure-Cubitt 

Attending ETF’s parliamentary reception was an incredibly special experience and a real privilege. Being invited to such a prestigious event allowed me to engage with key figures in education and policymaking, while representing East Norfolk Sixth Form College and the impact education can have on social mobility. 

Being chosen by my progress tutor and formally invited by my principal was a huge honour. From a student perspective, it can sometimes be easy to overlook how much time, effort and care teachers and leaders put into supporting us. Attending this event highlighted just how committed people across further education are to helping students achieve their potential. 

The opportunities I have been given at East Norfolk Sixth Form College have shaped me into the person I am today. Experiences such as volunteering overseas and taking part in community projects helped me develop independence, resilience and a stronger sense of responsibility to others. 

Continuing to strive for change and support for the further education sector is essential. Involving students in these conversations is powerful, not only so our voices are heard, but so we can better understand the ambitions of those working across the sector. This shared understanding helps build stronger connections between students, educators and policymakers. 

Without East Norfolk Sixth Form College and its dedicated staff, many of these opportunities would not have been possible. Attending ETF’s parliamentary reception reinforced the importance of further education and why student perspectives should remain central to conversations about its future.