Students from Lift Broadlands in Keynsham have enjoyed a first-hand look at British democracy during a visit to the Houses of Parliament in London.
The students travelled to Westminster where they were able to visit both the House of Commons and House of Lords and watch live debates from the public galleries. The trip gave them the opportunity to see for themselves how Parliament works and to connect what they have been learning in the classroom with the people, institutions and places at the heart of UK politics.
It also prompted some thoughtful questions from the students about Parliament and democracy, including whether an elected House of Lords would be fairer and how the age of its members might influence the decisions they make.
Seeing Parliament in action
Mr Brendon Abood, Assistant Principal and Pastoral Team Leader at Lift Broadlands, accompanied the students on the visit. “It was fantastic to see our students engaging so thoughtfully with Parliament and asking such interesting questions,” said Mr Abood. “Being able to sit in both Houses and watch live debates gave them a real insight into how our democratic institutions work.
“I was also really proud of the way our older students supported the younger ones throughout the day. They represented Broadlands brilliantly.”
Despite the long journey to London, staff praised the students for the way they conducted themselves throughout the trip, with older pupils taking on a mentoring role and helping younger students during the day.
As well as their time in Parliament, the students were able to explore some of the capital’s best-known landmarks, including Big Ben, the Cenotaph, 10 Downing Street and Buckingham Palace.
Enrichment across the school
The London trip forms part of Lift Broadlands’ wider programme of enrichment and personal development, designed to give students opportunities and experiences beyond their everyday lessons. Alongside educational trips, the school welcomes guest speakers and works with a range of external organisations to help students develop new interests, skills and experiences.
Every Friday, the school also finishes formal lessons one period early so that all students can choose from more than 20 clubs and activities taking place across the site.
Staff say the sessions have become a highlight of the school week, giving students the opportunity to try something new, develop their interests and spend time with pupils from different year groups.
The Parliament visit continued that approach by giving students the opportunity not just to learn about democracy, but to see it taking place in front of them.
