Pupils put their knowledge of democracy to the test when they welcomed their local MP into school, asking questions about everything from flooding and roadworks to how decisions are made on behalf of communities.
Children at All Saints Marsh CofE Academy, part of the Learning Academy Partnership, met Martin Wrigley MP during a visit designed to help them better understand the role of elected representatives and how Parliament works in practice.
During the visit, Mr Wrigley spoke about his journey into politics and explained how he represents and supports people living in the Newton Abbot area. He also discussed local issues including flooding, roadworks and environmental challenges, helping pupils understand how concerns are addressed at both local and national levels.
Members of the school’s council were able to ask questions following a recent visit to the Houses of Parliament, building on lessons about democracy and citizenship. The session aimed to help pupils understand how decisions are made and how elected representatives work on behalf of communities.
Liam O’Sullivan, headteacher at All Saints Marsh CofE Academy, said: “This was a fantastic opportunity for our pupils to meet Mr Wrigley and learn first-hand about the role of an MP.
“The children asked incredibly thoughtful questions and showed real curiosity about how decisions are made that affect their community.
“Experiences like this help our pupils understand that their voices and ideas matter.”
Tracey Cleverly, chief executive of the Learning Academy Partnership, said: “We are committed to providing rich, real-world learning experiences that help children understand the world around them.
“Meeting their local MP has given pupils a powerful insight into democracy in action and how public service works.
“It is wonderful to see their enthusiasm and engagement with such an important aspect of citizenship.”
The academy said the visit provided pupils with a practical example of democracy in action while encouraging them to think about leadership, responsibility and community engagement.
The school is part of the Learning Academy Partnership, a trust comprising 18 schools across Cornwall, Devon and Torbay. Information about the school can be found at www.allsaintsmarsh-lap.co.uk, while details about the trust are available at www.lapsw.co.uk.
