EVESHAM’s MP Nigel Huddleston visited Blackminster Middle School as part of Parliament Week to encourage students to participate in democracy.
University of Sheffield student Rhiannon McQuone organised the visit as part of her Parliamentary Studies coursework
It aimed to provide students with insights into the inner workings of Parliament and a deeper understanding of civic engagement.
Mr Huddleston shared his personal journey to becoming an MP and outlined the role of MPs.
The Mid Worcestershire MP addressed environment issues, teachers’ pay and his ministerial responsibilities.
Students participated in simulated Houses of Parliament, assuming roles as government and opposition MPs, select committee members, and even peers in the House of Lords.
Parliamentary bills were crafted, scrutinised and ‘passed’. They ranged from proposing a four-day school week to the idea of swapping school uniforms for giant chicken costumes.
Members of the student council then delved into various aspects of Huddleston’s role, from the daily routine of an MP to his priorities concerning the United Nations’ 17 sustainable development goals.
The lively and insightful exchange left the students with a profound understanding of the life of an MP, with some expressing a desire to pursue a similar path in the future.
Nigel Huddleston MP said:
“I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Blackminster Middle School, and it was excellent to see such bright and engaged students.
“I extend my thanks to Rhiannon McQuone for organising such a fantastic event.”
Rhiannon McQuone said:
“I had the pleasure of celebrating UK Parliament Week with the pupils of Blackminster Middle School.
“The students had some fantastic, very well-researched questions for Nigel.
“They learned so much about the life of an MP, and some of them even still wanted the job at the end of the session.
“I’m very thankful to Nigel for taking the time to attend and for sharing his unique experiences, and to the children at Blackminster Middle School for such brilliant writing, debating, voting, scrutinising, and questioning.
“We certainly have some future parliamentarians at BMS.”
