Last week, Upper Wharfedale School and Thornton in Craven Community Primary visited Westminster for tours of the Houses of Commons.
Following each school’s tour, they attended a 20-minute Q&A session in Parliament’s Education Centre to meet with their local MP, Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE, and ask questions. This is an opportunity for the group to make a tangible link between the area they live and the day-to-day work of Parliament and is often the highlight of children and young people’s visits to Parliament.
During his time with Upper Wharfedale School the students raised key local issues such as recycling bins, school transport and Skipton station improvements. Following the session Julian raised these concerns with North Yorkshire Council.
Later in the week, students from Thornton in Craven School asked questions on topics such as littering and animal cruelty.
Commenting on the visits, Julian said, “It was fantastic to meet the wonderful students from both Upper Wharfedale School and Thornton in Craven Community Primary.
“For schools in rural areas like ours, students can benefit greatly from seeing first-hand how our democracy works. I encourage all schools who have not yet visited Parliament to use the resources available via Parliament’s Education Centre.”
Schools and colleges wishing to learn more about Parliament's education services - including tours - can do so via Parliament's website: www.learning.parliament.uk/en/
