The Secretary of State for Education Michael Gove planted a tree when he visited one of the first of his free schools last week.

Mr Gove toured Woodpecker Hall Primary Academy, which was one of the first free schools to open in England,  in Cuckoo Hall Lane in Edmonton on Thursday, .

The Conservative MP planted a tree in the academy’s courtyard garden and unveiled a commemorative plaque in the school hall before listening to a performance by the Woodpecker Choir.

The politician observed lessons with Patricia Sowter CBE, chief executive of Cuckoo Hall Academies Trust and acting headteacher Sharon Ahmet.

During his visit, Mr Gove said the drive, passion and commitment of Ms Sowter and her team have "greatly improved" the prospects for Enfield's children.