Houses Of Parliament Trip 11 Jan 2017

On Wednesday 11^th of January the Citizenship Department organised an educational visit to the Houses of Parliament for some well deserving students at school, who have contributed to the wider school and local community.

It was a really interesting experience. The afternoon began with an historical tour of the Palace of Westminster- Westminster Hall. We learnt about its 1000-year history. For example, Henry VIII played tennis there and it is where the trials of William Wallace and Charles I took place (for treason), in addition to Anne Boleyn’s wedding banquet.

Following this, the House of Commons and the House of Lords were both in session, so we felt very lucky to have the opportunity to observe debates in each House. We watched the House of Commons debate the topical NHS Winter crisis. It was amazing to see the MP’s and Lords at work, sitting amongst their impressive and majestic (House of Lords) rooms.

After the tour we took part in a workshop titled ‘Making Laws’. We split into two political parties of our own making, and decided on a new Bill (suggested law) we thought we would like to see become an Act (law). We debated the Bill to decide whether it should become a law or not. It was terrific to experience the inner workings of Parliament.

An unexpected highlight of the afternoon was a visit from our local MP – the Right Honourable Iain Duncan Smith. He spent half an hour with us, imparting his wealth of wisdom and experience in British politics. His talk was highly informative as he really delved into his life as a politician. After his talk we were able to ask him several questions that he answered without hesitation.

I can speak for everybody when writing that learning about the government system and British politics will be of great benefit to us in the future, as we become older and politics holds more significance in each of our lives.