From Classroom to Commons with Dave Robertson MP

*This week, Lee and Adam are joined by Dave Robertson MP, a former physics teacher, trade union activist and now Member of Parliament. Dave shares his journey from the classroom to Westminster, explaining how a career in teaching, followed by years supporting teachers through the union movement, ultimately led him into politics and why he believes more teachers should have a voice in Parliament.* *The conversation explores what life as an MP is really like*, from the realities of working in Westminster and representing constituents to how the skills developed in teaching have proved invaluable in politics. Dave also explains why teachers often make excellent politicians, thanks to their ability to communicate, adapt quickly and solve problems under pressure. *Education quickly takes centre stage*, as Lee, Adam and Dave discuss funding pressures, academy trusts and why he believes stronger accountability is needed for multi academy trusts. They debate leadership pay, school budgets, teacher workload and why supporting teachers should remain at the heart of any education reform. *The trio also tackle some of the biggest challenges facing schools today*, including SEND reform, inclusion, Education, Health and Care Plans, and the ongoing struggle to secure sufficient funding. Dave shares his thoughts on the government's proposed reforms, why inclusion benefits every child, and the importance of ensuring ambition is matched with investment. *Ofsted and school accountability come under the spotlight*, with an honest discussion about the impact inspections have on teachers, whether the current system is fit for purpose and what meaningful reform could look like. Lee, Adam and Dave debate the balance between supporting school improvement and providing parents with useful information, while reflecting on why so many teachers have lost confidence in the inspection process. *Finally, the conversation broadens to politics, public debate and the challenges of modern democracy.* Dave reflects on navigating social media, dealing with online abuse, listening to opposing viewpoints and why respectful disagreement is becoming increasingly difficult. He also shares insights into the parliamentary petitions process and why better conversations, rather than louder arguments, are essential if politics is to rebuild trust with the public. 📬 Want your story or question featured on the pod? Submit it here: 👉 forms.gle/sWCUVURZjtn6GeN16 Here’s where you can catch the show 👇 🎭 October 2026 25th October - Norwich, Epic Studios 🏰 26th October - London, Soho Walthamstow 🎤 27th October - Tunbridge Wells, Assembly Hall Theatre 🌳 28th October - Eastbourne, Devonshire Park 🌊 29th October - Colchester, Charter Hall 🏺 30th October - Southampton, O2 Guildhall ⚓ 31st October - High Wycombe, Swan 🎶 🎭 February 2027 14th February - Blackpool, Grand Theatre 🎡 15th February - Carlisle, The Sands Centre 🏞️ 16th February - Chester, Storyhouse 🐎 17th February - Crewe, Lyceum Theatre 🚂 18th February - Nottingham, Royal Concert Hall 🏹 19th February - Stoke, Victoria Hall 🏺 20th February - Stockton, Globe Theatre 🌐 🎟️ Tickets at 2mrpspodcast.com/live See you on the road again soon 👏🎤 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices