Year 13 Politics students enjoy a visit to the Houses of Parliament
As part of the A-Level Politics curriculum, our Year 13 students recently had the exciting opportunity to visit the Houses of Parliament and the Cabinet Office.
Students were given a tour of the Cabinet Office building, where they learnt about the opportunities within the Civil Service. They also received information on how to apply for the award-winning Fast Stream programme, which offers unique development opportunities in the Civil Service. Additionally, students attended a Q&A session in the room where Winston Churchill addressed the crowds on VE Day in May 1945, an experience they found thrilling.
Following this, students toured the Palace of Westminster, the heart of British democracy. This was an excellent opportunity for them to see the inside of the House of Commons and the House of Lords, and to explore the beautiful building that houses the two chambers of the British Parliament. Students then participated in a workshop where they stood in a snap-election, which was fun, engaging, and informative.
Humanities teacher Mr Reay said, 'We are very grateful to our guides, Ben, Matt and Lynsey, for their informative talk on life working in the Civil Service. Students learnt about how civil servants are key to our democracy and their role in formulating policy, briefing ministers and how different key events have shaped the role of government.
'The tour of Parliament was also excellent and engaging for students and really helped students to bring their A-Level studies to life. Students commented that the information that was shared actually helped them with revision. At times, it was literally like a walking-talking mock! I'd like to give a shout-out to the students who took part, as they were fantastic ambassadors for BWA and the communities we serve.'
Head of Social Sciences, Mr Holdcroft, added, ‘Our students were mature, knowledgeable, and made a strong impression on both civil servants and education staff during their visit to Parliament. They represented the school well and should be proud of themselves as both Mr Reay and I are.’
