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Sixth-form Provision: Bolsover
11 November 2025
Lead MP
Natalie Fleet
Bolsover
Lab
Responding Minister
Josh MacAlister
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Word Count: 3030
Other Contributors: 1
At a Glance
Natalie Fleet raised concerns about sixth-form provision: bolsover in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
The hon. Member calls for the delivery of the promised sixth form in Bolsover, ensuring local young people do not miss out on opportunities available elsewhere in Derbyshire.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Residents of Bolsover have been campaigning for a sixth form since at least March 2020, with the closest existing provision being over 10 miles away and costing £25 per week by bus. Only 25% of students from The Bolsover school attend a sixth form due to travel costs and distances.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Complemented Natalie Fleet for securing the debate and suggested that the Minister look at Northern Ireland's initiatives, such as King’s Trust working alongside schools to provide support and career advice.
Government Response
Josh MacAlister
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Education
Government Response
We recognise the strength of local feeling on securing post-16 education in Bolsover and are committed to providing high-quality educational pathways. The Government aims to ensure that two thirds of young people gain higher-level qualifications, supporting diverse options like A-levels, T-levels, and V-levels. We understand the current challenges faced by young people in Bolsover due to lack of local provision and aim to address these through targeted investments and efficiency improvements. We are reviewing mainstream free schools planned by the previous Government to ensure they represent value for taxpayers’ money and meet local needs. We have evaluated evidence-based recommendations for all 44 projects in scope, considering a multi-year spending review and competing priorities. I will provide an update before Christmas on the matter of 16-to-19 provision in Bolsover as requested by my hon. Friend.
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About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.