At the end of a busy week in Westminster, what better than to present the certificates to eighty or more newly qualified teachers.

Tuesday was Ed Balls first Commons appearance as Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families.  Amongst his announcements was a review of Maths teaching for younger pupils, more university involvement in Academies and more money for after school activity for children from disadvantaged families.  It was a good announcement but had created a busy few days in getting it all together.

Wednesday followed with Gordon Brown's announcement of the legislative programme for the next year.  I was delighted that housing was top of the bill - a sure sign that we might be able to get some movement on this problem that is making communities in Dorset feel unsustainable.

On Thursday I had to give evidence with Ed Balls to the Statutory Teachers Review Body, on teachers pay for the next three years.  It seemed to go reasonably well, but only time will tell.  Then at the end of the day I went to a wonderful evening at Lulworth Castle to celebrate 50 years of Universal Engineering.  I have worked with this important employer over the years and they threw a great party to celebrate their anniversary.

Then today I had a few meetings before speaking at the graduation ceremony for newly qualified teachers in Dorset.  Our inspectors tell us that we have the best new generation of teachers ever, and all the signs are that this new cohort will maintain the excellent standard.