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Tyndale Cluster: ORDER, ORDER….school pupils turn into mini politicians for the day

Eight 11-year-old pupils from Kingswood, North Nibley, Slimbridge and Stone with Woodford Primary schools have travelled to Brussels to take a first-hand lesson on European democracy, before returning to Gloucestershire to create a mini European Parliament inside their schools.

Pupils travelled to the centre of European politics to learn about how the European Parliament works and how laws are passed with the help of grants from BT the Educational Business partnership and local trusts.

The pupils hands-on studies include discussions with South-West MEPs Caroline Jackson and Neil Parish, at the impressive European Parliament building in the centre of Brussels.

Children in Europe

Headteacher of Kingswood School Carol Brodie said: “Much of the time, the only chance pupils have to see how any parliament works is through books and pictures. This day of political studies will help these pupils, and their schools to learn more about how the European political system and democracy works. This is an opportunity for the pupils to have some first-hand information about the nuts and bolts of political life. We expect the visit to inspire pupils and help them to bring even more enthusiasm to their role as offcials of their respective School Councils.

On their return the six school council leaders will help set up a reconstruction of the European Parliament, where the motion will be Should Britain adopt the Euro? The exercise will be attended by fellow pupils, parents, governors and MEPs who no doubt will find it interesting to see pupils’ perceptions of their working life.

Mrs Brodie added: “I hope the children will learn more about the role of MEPs and the working of the European political system from their visit, interviews and from the re-enactment.”

Fellow pupils of the six schools will attend the mock parliamentary debate and details of the project will be shared with other schools in Gloucestershire.

Caroline and Carlin from North Nibley said: “We think going to Brussels was a good idea because it was a good opportunity for children to find out more about politics and law to make them better citizens. It is also a good chance for people who do not go abroad to have a chance to see what different countries are like, and to see how the European Union Government works.”

For more information phone Carol Brodie headteacher Kingswood Primary on 01453 842197

>>Also see OURSCHOOLS CItizenship Resources