A day that 'we've been waiting for'

It’s coming up to five years since Edge was launched, and Tuesday was a proud day for me. We had two great events that symbolized Edge’s work as a campaign and as a catalyst raising the stature of practical and vocational learning.

First was was the formal opening of our Academy in Milton Keynes by HRH the Duke of Kent. Of course it was nice to have all the dignitaries there and it was fabulous to see this spectacular building being used so well. But the highlight? For me, as always, it was talking to some of the young people there. Because they were clearly enjoying it and because I’m sure it will make a difference to their lives – though make no mistake, it will take time and incredible hard work for this to be reflected in ‘results’.

Which brings me to the young stars of ‘We Are The People We’ve Been Waiting For’, the feature-length documentary movie which received its world premiere at the Empire, Leicester Square on Tuesday evening. As with all the best premieres, there was a red carpet for the VIP guests, who included the five young people from Swindon (whose experiences are at the centre of the film) along with their family and friends.

The crowds lining the red carpet were thrilled to spot another contributor to the movie; Henry Winkler (aka ‘The Fonz’) as well as Oscar-winning producer David Puttnam (who inspired and guided the film with Michael Barber). It was a really fabulous evening - and the film, which I believe is powerful, provocative and very informative, was well received and hotly debated in the Q&A session that followed the screening.

It’s impossible to watch to the stories of the five teenagers from Swindon in the film without realising that there are many talents and many paths to success. But although the most fabulous examples of brilliant teaching and learning already exist, in general our education system does not provide a rich enough mix of opportunities and experiences; theoretical, practical, and work-based. These opportunities are vital if we are to enable young people to discover for themselves what they are good at, what they enjoy and who they want to be in life. And this surely is our common purpose, whether we are teachers, parents, employers or policy makers.

Edge is committed to this common purpose, and to encouraging everyone to watch the film, talk about their own experiences and then work out what actions they can take. As the film says, right now young people need us, but very soon we will need them – they are the people we’ve been waiting for. So, please watch it – and please talk about it. In fact I've been delighted to see so many positive blogs this week - thank you to everyone who's written something and/or featured the trailer.

First off, you’ll be able to pick up a copy with the Family section of The Guardian on Saturday 28 November. And do get in touch if you want to show the film at your school, college, organisation or area - we’ll do our best to help.

Most importantly, make sure you ‘have your say’ on what needs to change in education at wearethepeoplemovie.com

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