TWO former Gloucestershire High Sheriffs and a member of parliament have visited a Cam school’s new mechanics' bay where students are getting their hands dirty and picking up new skills.

Former High Sheriffs of Gloucestershire, Tom Frost and Roger Head, and Stroud MP Neil Carmichael have visited Peak Academy’s mechanics' bay in recent weeks following its installation shortly after Christmas last year.

The bay is inspiring students by giving them the chance opportunity to work hands-on with cars in an authentic working environment.

“Our children are thriving,” said Peak Academy headteacher at Richard Lewis.

“All of our children are accessing the mechanics' bay. One of our girls, since making use of it, has told me she wants to go on to be a mechanic, so it’s having a real impact."

“We could see it inspiring young primary school children as part of an alternative curriculum or being used by other schools or groups within the community.”

Mr Frost and Mr Head visited the school in April and were very impressed by the new department. The pair had together raised more than £2,500 to go towards the bay prior to its development.

Stroud MP Mr Carmichael, a firm supporter of mechanics and engineering in the region and the chairman of the House of Commons education select committee, visited the school towards the end of last month. He praised the opportunities offered to the students through the mechanics' bay.

“Young people at The Peak have a great opportunity here,” he said.

“The support that they receive from Richard and his team is immense and I cannot praise highly enough the hard work and dedication that they put in.

“I met with a student in the workshop and he plans to take up a career as a mechanical engineer and hopes one day to open his own garage.”

If you are work for a primary school or are a member of a local group that could make use of the mechanics' bay at Peak Academy call the school to request a chat with Mr Lewis on 01453 542130.