Swedish educators visit Leeds' finest

2.47.00pm GMT Thu 17th Apr 2008

A 23-strong delegation from Sweden, including representatives from Stockholm City Council's Education department, Karrtorps 6th Form College, the Municipality of Sollentuna and ICG AB, visited Leeds earlier this week as guests of Education Leeds, as part of an ongoing management skills exchange programme.

The group was headed by Lotta Edholm, Stockholm's Deputy Mayor for Education and leader of the city's Liberal group, which is currently in power as part of Stockholm's four-party joint administration.

The visitors attended a conference at the Carriageworks before being shown around a number of Leeds schools, including Shakespeare Primary School, Methley Primary School, Primrose High School, Carr Manor High School and North East SILC - West Oaks Site. On Monday evening they attended a reception at the Civic Hall, at which the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress were also present.

Executive Board Member for Education, Councillor Richard Harker (Lib Dem, Moortown), said:

"It is wonderful to have the opportunity to learn from and with our European neighbours in this way. There is a lot to be gained from an exchange of skills of this nature, especially as the local government situation in Stockholm is so similar to our own here in Leeds".