MONMOUTHSHIRE County Council’s Leader, Cllr Mary Ann Brocklesby, has announced that Cllr Laura Wright will be taking over as the Cabinet Member for Education, succeeding Cllr Martyn Groucutt.
During the Annual General Meeting (AGM) on May 15, Cllr Groucutt announced his decision to resign after three years in office. Throughout his tenure, he made significant contributions to the council’s educational initiatives. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for his dedication and leadership.
Cllr Brocklesby expressed her appreciation: “On behalf of the council and our residents, I would like to thank Cllr Groucutt for his dedication as the Cabinet Member for Education.
£His commitment has led to many positive changes in our county, including the opening of the new King Henry 3-19 School building and the launch of Wales’s first Autism in Schools and Settings Programme.”
In announcing his resignation, Cllr Groucutt stated: “It has been a privilege to serve as the Cabinet Member for Education for the past three years, following a career dedicated to improving education for all learners.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed travelling throughout the county, meeting with school governors, staff, and, most importantly, the pupils. Together, we have accomplished many great things, and I look forward to seeing Cllr Wright take on this role and bring her ideas and leadership to the table.
“It has been an honour to represent the young people of Monmouthshire.”
Cllr Wright, who represents the Grofield ward in Abergavenny, previously served as the council’s Chair for 2022-23. As she begins her role as the Cabinet Member for Education, we look forward to her leadership in continuing to provide inclusive education for all young people in Monmouthshire.
Cllr Brocklesby added: “I am excited to work with Cllr Wright in her new role within the Cabinet. Her dedication to Grofield has positively impacted the ward, and I am confident that this will also be reflected in her new position.
“Providing the best education for our younger residents is a key aspect of our work in the council.”
In response to her appointment, Cllr Wright remarked: “It is a great privilege to join the cabinet as the Cabinet Member for Education. I look forward to collaborating with officers and schools to ensure we make informed decisions that positively influence the educational journeys of our young people.
“Cllr Groucutt has laid a strong foundation for me to continue making our schools as inclusive as possible, ensuring that every learner receives the best support.
“I look forward to travelling across the county, visiting our fantastic schools, and learning more about how we can enhance the excellent work already taking place.”
To find out more about the council’s Cabinet, visit the Monmouthshire County Council Cabinet webpage.
