SCHOOLS Minister David Miliband MP fielded questions on the state of education in Derwentside this week.

Mr Miliband visited Derwentside College in Consett, along with North West Durham MP and Government Chief Whip Hilary Armstrong last Thursday.

The event was part of the Government's Big Conversation series, to hear the views of local head teachers, governors, teachers and parents.

Ms Armstrong said: "We have some very good local schools.

"However, we all know there is still work to be done to secure the very best education for our young people.

"It's very important that the views of those involved in education in north-west Durham are fed back to the Government."