A MOSSLEY school hopes its pupils will be encouraged to engage in politics and become ‘agents of change’ in the future.
It follows the deputy headteacher of Micklehurst All Saints CE Primary’s recent inspiring visit to Parliament.
Earlier this year, Sarah Jarman was offered a place on the UK Parliament Teacher Ambassador Programme – a three-day course which brought together 65 teachers from across the country to help them discover more about how Parliament works.
Sarah said: “The experience offered a fascinating insight into the intriguing world of Westminster and I’m looking forward to sharing my new knowledge with students and staff alike next term.
“Now that I have completed the programme, I feel well-equipped with the knowledge needed to involve our pupils at Micklehurst with everything that UK Parliament has to offer.
“Throughout the year, we plan to provide our school community with as many opportunities as we can to engage with the UK Parliament and we hope they’ll feel inspired to become agents of change.”
The school has already arranged for local MP Jonathan Reynolds to visit in September and is planning a range of democracy-themed events to mark Parliament Week in November.
Whilst in London, Sarah and her fellow teachers were given the opportunity to watch debates in the House of Commons and House of Lords, as well as learn more about the role of MPs, Lords, doorkeepers and select committees.
There was also a tour of the Palace of Westminster, networking with fellow teachers, and even the opportunity to quiz Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker of the House of Commons, and his counterpart in the Lords, Lord McFall of Alcluith.
Lord McFall said: “The Teacher Ambassador Programme is exceptionally well regarded by the participants each year, and I welcome the opportunity to explore the work of the House of Lords with such a dedicated audience.
“As a former teacher and one who has a continuing engagement with young people, I know how keen they are to understand how politics works in practice. This successful initiative is a great opportunity to encourage that interest.”