Pupils at Stoneyholme Primary got a taste of political life as they welcomed Burnley and Padiham’s MP Antony Higginbotham to see the unique establishment of a student-led parliament within the school.
During his visit, Mr. Higginbotham addressed the entire school assembly on his experiences of being an MP before holding a ‘mock’ parliament for students between year 3 – 6.
Setup to teach the importance of democracy, the student parliament has seen children invited to put their names forward to run different government departments, alongside electing their very own Ministers, Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister.
Over the past 12 months Antony Higginbotham MP has been actively engaging with schools right across the borough speaking about the importance politics and the UK’s democratic system. Visiting Stoneyholme Primary School marks his latest visit in an ongoing effort to foster a keen interest in governance and civic responsibility among young learners.
Speaking after the event Burnley’s MP said:
Visiting schools across the borough to speak about the importance of democracy has been great. Nothing like this was available when I was in school. But I think it’s important that children are given the opportunity to discuss topics – if anything because it boosts confidence.
I’ve seen that for myself in all of the schools I’ve visited. And Stoneyholme Primary was no different. Hats off to them for setting up their own Parliament too – that I haven’t seen before. I’d like to say a big thank you to all the staff and students for the warm welcome they gave.
Commenting on the visit, Early Years Foundation Stage class teacher Melanie Lavery said:
Antony’s visit to the annual opening of state parliament was inspiring for the children. It was brilliant for the pupil parliament to work with Antony and ask questions about his role. Antony offered an insight into parliament that very few people could provide.
As we are a Rights Respecting school, pupil voice is an integral part of our school.
At Stoneyholme, we endeavour to prepare our children for life in the 21st century and develop into respectful citizens. Pupil Parliament has given the children a voice in how the school evolves and support aspects that matter to the children.
