Video: Education minister Michael Gove on Educating Yorkshire

Education Secretary Michael Gove meets Headteacher Andy Pugh at Castle Hall Academy.

The Secretary of State for Education was shown around the school, which was saved from closure in 2009.

He said he was impressed with what he saw at the academy.

“The best people to run schools are headteachers, and academies like Mirfield allow them to take more control over their schools,” he said.

“Other schools now know they should raise their games.”

He also revealed a liking for Educating Yorkshire, which follows the trials and tribulations of pupils at Thornhill Community Academy.

“There are lots of good schools in Dewsbury, one of which is Thornhill Community Academy,” he said. “I have been watching Educating Yorkshire, and one of the things I was really impressed with was what a new headteacher has been capable of achieving.

“The headteacher is undoubtedly my favourite character, but I have to say that Ryan, the boy from Year Eight who was running for school council is a politician of the future!”

Pick up next week’s paper for more on the visit.