Sir Ed Davey backs National Star students
Summary
The leader of the Liberal Democrats, Sir Ed Davey, has backed National Star students in their calls to be treated as active and valued citizens. Sir Ed met students during his visit to the charity, based at Ullenwood, near Cheltenham, which supports young adults with complex physical needs and learning disabilities.
Details
The students talked to him of their challenges to get funding for specialist further education and their aspirations to secure work and be active members of their community. They spoke passionately about how they feel undervalued in a system that sees only their cost, not their value as citizens. Rox, a work-based student at National Star’s Greensteps , said: “I never felt helped or supported in my old college.
I was always made to feel that I wouldn’t amount to anything and let people down and that I didn’t deserve their help. I was also told and made to feel like a burden. “I started at Greensteps in September 2025.
When I look back, I don’t recognise myself. Back then I was shy, quiet and disengaged. I have grown in my confidence as I can now talk to the staff and students at college and I am more willing to do things.
Related stories
My mental health has improved a lot, and I am very proud of the things I have accomplished.” Liberal Democrat Leader Ed Davey MP said: “Every young person deserves the opportunity to thrive, and the incredible staff here at National Star are making that a reality every single day.
“This brilliant college is a testament to what can be achieved when young people get the tailored support they deserve, and we must urgently invest in high quality SEND provision to ensure no young person is left behind.” Sir Ed was accompanied on his visit to the campus at Ullenwood by Cheltenham MP Max Wilkinson and county councillor Paul Hodgkinson.
They attended a leavers’ ceremony where Sir Ed spoke to students and families. He also presented a prize to a student for personal development. Cheltenham MP Max Wilkinson said: “Every time I visit National Star, I am inspired by the students I meet and the brilliant staff who work so hard to create this special atmosphere which allows everyone to thrive.
If we had more colleges like this, the world would be a much brighter and happier place.” National Star’s chief executive Lynette Barrett said: “Celebrating the successes of National Star students is always a privilege and it was wonderful that Sir Ed, Max and Paul could be part of our celebration.
Report source: Punchline Gloucester