EDUCATION secretary Ed Balls MP was in Cheshire yesterday to meet staff and students at Neston high school.

The secretary of state for children, schools and families was invited to see teaching at the specialist college of science and visual arts first hand.

Music students also performed a concert in his honour.

Assistant head teacher Judy Gilmour said: “His principal focus is to ensure that every child gets the best possible start in life.

“They should be safe and healthy, secure the highest of standards of achievements, enjoy their childhood and make a positive contribution to society free from the effects of poverty.

“These aims are the key aims of ‘Every Child Matters’, which is a national policy to ensure all young people achieve the highest possible standards in all aspects of their development.

“In our last Ofsted report, we were honoured when they commented every child really does matter at Neston high school.”

During his visit, Mr Balls viewed teaching and learning in the school, in Raby Park Road, and spoke with a variety of students and staff.