MEETING pupils from Somerset schools, whether at the school or a politics related visit, is one of my favourite parts of being an MP.

In the question and answer sessions I take part in, and in the letters I receive there is a straightforward questioning attitude which is both direct and refreshing.

Every child deserves a good education that offers not only exam grades but building of skills and confidence.

Keeping the status quo can fail children too though, as was famously the case with what Alistair Campbell described in 2001 as ‘the bog-standard comprehensive.’

The journey since then has been a positive one involving political parties from across the spectrum.

Academies receive funding directly from the government and being outside of Local Authority control can bring certain freedoms and a genuine sense of empowerment.

Started under the Labour Government, they were originally designed to change the way failing schools were managed and bring in new expertise.

Across the country standards are risingby any measure, including many more schools with excellent Ofsted ratings.

Where struggling schools have turned themselves around it is because teachers have been allowed them to innovate, shift focus and get on with what they do best.

The government recently announced plans to make all state primary and secondary schools academies by 2020. Some of the honesty I mentioned earlier needs to come into play here.

If a school is doing perfectly well under Local Authority control, will it really help to change that system for ideological reasons?

I will continue to campaign in Westminster for better funding for rural schools but want to hear from those doing the job before I can support this dramatic rollout of academisation.

If you’re a local teacher and have views on academies, be they positive or negative, email marcus.fysh.mp@parliament.uk.