A shadow minister has praised pupils in Gospel Oak after a school visit.

Shadow employment minister, Nick Thomas MP visited William Ellis School in Gospel Oak to hear how unemployed young people are giving a year of full-time voluntary service to the school to support pupils whist boosting their own job prospects.

Mr Thomas-Symonds met headteacher Sam White and pupils to learn about the impact of the City Year UK scheme, which sees young people aged 18-25 work for free as mentors, tutors and role models.

The MP said: “The City Year volunteers were truly inspirational.

“They improve the life chances of so many with their commitment, determination and good humour, whilst at the same time gaining invaluable skills and experience.”

City Year UK claims that more than 90 per cent of the scheme’s graduates are in permanent paid work or full-time study with three months of leaving the programme.