On 13th October, the Mayor of Basingstoke and Deane, Cllr Jacky Tustain, visited Queen Mary’s College to meet students from the Foundation Learning Pathways programme.

The visit provided a fantastic opportunity for final-year students to learn first-hand about local government, civic responsibility, and the vital role of community engagement.

Connecting classroom learning with civic duty

Now in their final year at QMC, students on the Pathways programme have been exploring the core themes of community and citizenship. Mayor Jacky’s visit cemented their learning, bringing these concepts to life as she explained her responsibilities as a local councillor and the civic traditions surrounding mayoralty.

Mayor Jacky shares a strong, long-standing relationship with QMC, and in particular the Foundation Learning Department, both as a former student and as a college parent.

Championing Inclusion and Accessibility

Outside of her civic duties, Mayor Jacky spoke about her dedication to creating an inclusive community with equal opportunities for all. As a trustee of several local organisations supporting young people with additional needs, including the Basingstoke and District Disability Forum, Mencap and Loddon Social Enterprise, she highlighted the importance of advocacy and accessibility. 

To wrap up the visit, an engaging Q&A session saw students asking thoughtful questions about her day-to-day tasks, community initiatives, and personal interests.

Reflecting on the visit, Anne Corrigan, Teacher of Foundation Learning commented:

“We are very grateful to the Mayor for taking the time to come and visit the Foundation Learning students and wish the Mayor well with her aims to build a kinder, healthier and more connected community and also with her fundraising for the Mayoral Community Chest.”