32 pupils and teachers, from Harrison Primary School, received a special tour of the Houses of Parliament – including the House of Commons, House of Lords and Westminster Hall – and sat in on a session in the Commons where they could watch MPs and Ministers debate.
The Fareham pupils also took part in an interactive learning experience in a workshop at the Parliamentary Education Centre, where they learnt about the history of Parliamentary democracy in Britain and the role of Parliament today.
As part of the experience, the pupils formed two groups, one taking on the role of the Government and the other the opposition, whilst other pupils ‘dress-up’ as the queen, black rod and other figures from Parliamentary life, and had a mock debate.
It was great welcoming the children and teachers from Harrison Primary – this has been a big year for the school, which has achieved outstanding results. The pupils should be enormously proud of themselves for their hard work and the results are a clear reflection of innovating approach of the school’s leadership.
Visits like these are really important for young people. They learn of the significance of Parliament and our democratic system in an age-specific and interactive way. Schools and people in Fareham interested should contact me to find how they can organise a trip to Parliament.