Wellacre’s Politics Project Welcomes Local MP

Posted at 2:17 pm on 25th April, 2023

Digital Surgery with Andrew Western MP

On 28th March, students from Wellacre’s co-curricular Politics Project participated in a digital surgery with Andrew Western, the Labour Member of Parliament for Stretford and Urmston.

During the Spring term, students attending the P6 club, from Year 9 to 11, have been enjoying sessions on the role of councillors and MPs, the difference between local, regional and national government, who has power in our society, what democracy is, and we have had lots of discussions on political topics that matter to them. 

  

The Politics Project programme offers a meaningful, informed interaction between young people and politicians, and supports schools to run digital surgeries. These surgeries are an excellent opportunity for students to further develop their learning and understanding of politics.  

In preparation, students also discussed their views and opinions on issues affecting them at a local and national level, and each picked a question to pose to Andrew Western.  

They discussed the role of a councillor and MP,  the positive things about Stretford and Urmston and what could be improved, and who Andrew's favourite cricketer is!

 Miss Morley, Teacher of History and Politics Project coordinator, said:

“Given the current political climate I think it's particularly important for students to understand how decisions are made in our country and who is making those decisions. It has been amazing to see students' political understanding develop as we have worked our way through the sessions, and for this to be reflected in the questions that they asked their local MP.”

With important issues raised by Wellacre students, their voice and opinion can lead to real changes in their community.  For politicians, digital surgeries provide an opportunity to represent their young constituents more effectively.

Evan, Year 9, said:   

“'The session with Andrew was really interesting, he gave really good answers to all of our questions. I feel like I have learnt a lot about politics from the Politics Project.”

On twitter, Andrew Western MP, said:

“Great to talk to students at Wellacre Academy this morning - some future Paxmans in there!”

Mrs Sharrock, Principal, added:

“I see real value in The Politics Project. We are looking forward to welcoming Andrew Western to Wellacre in the Summer term.”