Senators

Mike Vibert

Mike Vibert spent 12 years in the States, and recently negotiated free nursery places for pre-school children and said he's proud of the exam results Jersey students get.

He would put together a ten-year Education plan if he's re-elected and he believes although reading levels in primary schools have improved there's still more work to be done.

Manifesto

Hello, I’m Mike Vibert and I’ve been a States member for 12 years; six as a deputy for St Brelade and six as a Senator.

Before that I was a teacher and then a broadcaster with this station, BBC Radio Jersey.

I’m standing on my record as a States member, and in particular what I’ve achieved in the last six years when I’ve been in charge of Education, Sport and Culture.

I believe here in Jersey we offer an outstanding education experience to all children in Jersey. This is born out by the achievements of our young people, whether it be in public examinations or in completing vocational courses.

We also continue to excel at sports, based on the quality of coaching and facilities we offer. And for the first time the island has a cultural strategy, designed to ensure our arts and heritage are recognised and protected.

I believe in change; change for the better, and that’s what I’ve worked to achieve during my time in the States.

The introduction of free television licenses for the less well-off over-75s, which I pushed through and which over 1,600 houses in Jersey now benefit from was, I believe, a change for the better.

Getting free nursery education for three to four-year-olds from next September, which the States have just agreed to, is a change for the better, both for families now and for the long term future of the island.

Abolishing unnecessary, stressful SATs examinations for young children; change for the better.

Offering more degree courses on-island, including a new financial foundation degree; change for the better.

Offering more vocational courses at Highlands, and setting up a new careers and advice centre; again, change for the better.

And rebuilding Mont a L’Abbe school and increasing its funding; change for the better.

As I’ve said I believe in change for the better, but I also believe in the need for stability and continuity.

At a time when we face global economic turmoil and rising prices I believe experience is invaluable in ensuring Jersey remains stable, and is steered through this period to remain economically successful.

I believe the island needs experienced, sensible States members to work together to ensure we retain our prosperity.

If re-elected, I would seek to continue as Minster for Education, Sport and Culture as I believe continuity in the area is vital.

Work has already started on a long-term 10 year plus plan for ESC and I would wish to finish that work based on my record of achievement in this area.

So I believe in change for the better allied to stability and continuity. I believe that that is what I can offer you as a candidate for senator; experience and a record of achievement, and I would ask you to consider me for one of your votes on 15 October.