Valerie visited Chamberlin and Hill's local foundry in Chuckery on the 11th September during their annual open day. Dave Morgan and Gordon Stanley showed her round the foundry, explaining the production process and introducing her to members of staff as they worked. In fact, Gordon had only recently retired after a lifetime's service in the company, and his connection with the firm is even older as his mother, father and uncles all worked for Chamberlin and Hill. Valerie was very encouraged by the positive news she heard from the Directors that the company's order book was increasing despite the recession. Also, that the company had invested heavily in reducing the environmental impact of the foundry and facilitated an education programme for employees.

Valerie joined the children and staff of Chuckery Primary School to celebrate the opening of their new school buildings.  Also attending the opening ceremony was Dave Morgan of local Chuckery manufacturing firm, Chamberlin and Hill.  Valerie commented 'It's great to see that the Labour Government lived up to its commitment to improve the educational opportunities for our children.  Chuckery School's children will now be able to learn in an environment more suited to the 21st Century.'    

Valerie met the Walsall National Union of Teachers' delegation to discuss the Government's decision to cancel the Building Schools for the Future projects in Walsall.  During Prime Minister's Questions Valerie quizzed David Cameron about his decision to cancel the rebuilding of Joseph Leckie School and others, and invited the Secretary of State for Education, Michael Gove, to visit Walsall South and explain his decision.