Pupils at a Derby school learned all about UK Parliament and what it does after taking part in a lively, interactive assembly.
Malcolm Smith, senior education and engagement officer for the East Midlands, visited The Bemrose School to talk to students about the House of Commons, House of Lords and how laws are passed in the UK. They also learned about what this means for their lives as citizens.
The 30-minute presentation, which was tailored for The Bemrose School’s primary phase, and also its secondary school, saw youngsters ‘pass’ a law where schools in the UK would only open for four days a week.
Youngsters had to debate the pros and cons of a four-day week while the ‘speaker’ had to oversee the discussion.
Bemrose School primary students with Malcolm Smith, senior education and engagement officer for the East Midlands.
Kate Beecroft, head of primary phase at The Bemrose School, said: “The children were very engaged in the assembly and UK Parliament was explained to them in a way in which they understood.
“It was great seeing so much excitement, and our pupils have learned a lot from the assembly.”
UK Parliament offer a range of resources, lesson plans, presentations and videos for schools and colleges, and their outreach team also visit community groups and home educators.
There are various events held throughout the year, including tours of the Houses of Parliament, and teachers can also apply to become a UK Parliament Teacher Ambassador. The three-day training programme helps to develop knowledge of UK Parliament and how to actively engage with the work that goes on there, with all travel, accommodation and meal costs covered.
Malcolm Smith said: “We have a team of people who work across the country visiting the public to explain how Parliament works and how it operates.
“We think that it’s really important that young people in particular have an understanding of how they can get their voices heard in Parliament, and how they can make a difference.
“Pupils at The Bemrose School had some great questions and were fully engaged in the assembly. It was good to see.”
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For further information, email kerry@penguinpr.co.uk or contact 07734 723951
