Latest News
Future leaders visit the Houses of Parliament
We had an ambitious start to the academic year, with pupils across the Inspire Learning Partnership getting a rare view of what it takes to work in the bustling heart of the UK’s political arena with a trip to London.
An action-packed day saw members of the Pupil Leadership Teams at Blackfield Primary, Kanes Hill Primary, Hightown Primary and St Monica Primary visit the Houses of Parliament to admire the unique combination of history, modern day politics and stunning architecture. The trip included an awe-inspiring tour of both the House of Commons and the House of Lords as well as a question and answer session with Dr Julian Lewis, the Conservative MP for New Forest East.
This was an excellent opportunity for pupils across our schools to come together to further their knowledge and understanding of politics and democracy; and discuss how they can make a positive contribution to their schools through their leadership roles, for the benefit of their fellow peers. Pupils shared best practice and devised action plans which they plan to implement across the year in their respective schools.
Claire Lowe, CEO commented: “Following a year of lockdowns and restrictions, we were delighted to be able to afford our pupils across the Trust the chance to come together to extend their learning beyond the classroom. There is a culture of collaboration across the Inspire Learning Partnership and this is one of the ways we demonstrate our commitment to improving the life chances of young people. We are confident that in years to come we will be visiting again and seeing one of our former pupils in an active political role.”
Pupil voice plays an integral part of life at Blackfield, Kanes Hill, Hightown and St Monica primary schools, enabling pupils to take the opportunity to influence and understand the decisions that impact their school life. Through the Pupil Leadership Teams and school councils, pupils are encouraged to speak up for themselves and on behalf of others, to co-operate and to compromise; skills that will secure their futures as leaders.
Mr Tariq Sasso, Principal at Blackfield Primary School commented: “This trip was a fantastic opportunity for our Year 6 children to focus on leadership and teamwork, as well as providing an insight into how roles of responsibility are reflected in government. All our pupils conducted themselves impeccably and were a real credit to the Trust and their schools.”