A fact-finding mission to the heart of UK democracy has inspired children at St Gregory’s Catholic Primary in Margate.
After their visit to the Houses of Parliament, school council members will use their new-found knowledge to help lead the school’s democracy week in November.
Teacher Shimona Sandwell is the school council lead. She explained: “The chance for our children to see and act out the process of law-making was unique.
“Taking part in an inspirating workshop showed them how a parliamentary motion can become a bill that can ping pong between debates in the House of Commons and the House of Lords before becoming a law.
“They then voted on motions such as children having to eat vegetables every day and whether dropping litter should carry a custodial sentence – the adults acted as the ‘lords’ and a lively debate with well-constructed points was aired.
“Our school council members now have a real understanding of how the democratic process works in the UK. They will be able to lead St Gregory’s whole school motions to a final vote next month.
“The children were amazing ambassadors for our school, asking insightful questions and showing a real thirst for knowledge.”
They were fascinated by the high security to gain entry to the Palace of Westminster. On their guided tour they found out about how the Victoria tower stored paper copies of every law and were fascinated by the masonry restoration work.
The were impressed by the grandeur of the robing room, walking in the footsteps of countless monarchs; they enjoyed discovering the three colours of Parliament in the room and tried to locate which secret panel hid the King’s private bathroom.
As Parliament was on recess, they were able to explore both Houses, seeing the dispatch boxes, the wool sack, the monarch’s seat and examined the speakers in the benches. They viewed the corridors used for MPs when voting on a motion and learnt about the ceremonial aspects of the houses, enjoying being in places they had only ever seen on television.
Some of the group were excited to have their first visit to London and experience travelling on the capital’s underground. They were impressed with the height of historic Big Ben and with the grand and ornate statues in Parliament square.
Head Teacher Dave Walker said:” This was an important exploration of a vital part of this country’s culture, heritage and history for our pupils.
“Democracy week is a lively and engaging part of our school year. Seeing Parliament first hand and experiencing what makes it tick was a valuable lesson for our school council – I am sure it will positively enhance the way our own look at democracy unfolds.”
