Academy students visit Houses of Parliament

In December, a cohort of Social Sciences students (Sociology, Law & Politics) from years 10,12 & 13 accepted Rosie Duffield MP’s invitation to visit the Palace of Westminster and receive a tour of both the House of Commons and the House of lords. We are the first school from the constituency to do so as far as I’m aware.

Given significance of the topics due to be debated in the lower chamber, Parliament was exceptionally busy but we were afforded the opportunity to see a range of important historic locations. As well as the aforementioned houses, students also visited the Queen’s gallery, the Prince’s Chamber (directly underneath which was the site of Guy Fawkes infamous bomb plot) and Westminster Hall.

Following the tour, students took part in a democracy workshop where they explored how laws/bills are passed (or not!) through parliament. We were then privileged to receive an audience with Lord Griffiths of Bury port, a Labour peer who spoke to the students about his role. Students asked a range of questions on a variety of topics including the democratic deficit, lords reform and Brexit. Despite the importance of the scheduled parliamentary debate (and subsequent vote which say the government defeated J), Rosie herself made time to visit the students and answered questions about the historic general election result in the Canterbury and Whitstable and the role of women in parliament.

The students conduct was exceptional throughout the day. Lord Griffiths was particularly complimentary towards our students and welcomed their questions, remaining well beyond his allotted time so that he could answer as many questions as possible. It is hoped that some of our year 10s will be able to carry out work experience in the political sphere following their meeting with Lord Griffiths.