SCHOOL pupils are debating with the politicians making the headlines, thanks to an organisation providing educational experiences to young people interested in politics.

Wellacre Academy, in Urmston, began a partnership with The Politics Project in November 2017.

In this time, the project has brought with it numerous opportunities for students to meet and converse with politicians such as Andy Burnham, Greater Manchester Mayor, Kate Green MP for Stretford and Urmston, Councillor Sean Anstee, leader of Trafford Council, and Lord Goddard of Stockport.

During May year eight, nine and 10 students participated in an ‘ask the speaker’ event with John Bercow, current speaker of the House of Commons, along with a Digital Surgery, via videolink, with Lord Tyler, a Liberal Democrat politician.

In lessons, students had prepared questions about the issues important to them and to the country.

In discussion with both John Bercow and Lord Tyler, students posed these questions and voiced their own opinions as well.

Students jumped at the opportunities provided by the Digital Surgeries.

Billy, a year eight student, said: “I enjoyed talking to someone who knows a lot about politics and also speaking about hot topics such as Brexit, trade and the environment.”

Monty, year 10, added: “Speaking to Lord Tyler was an extremely interesting and fun experience.

"I enjoyed asking him questions and hearing his opinion, but also giving him my own.

"It has given me more knowledge on current politics and I’m thankful for Lord Tyler’s time.”

Following the Digital Surgery, Lord Tyler was just as impressed with the keen students, saying: “I very much enjoyed the discussion with Wellacre’s well-briefed students; I thought that they must be older to be so well informed!”

As well as reflecting on current affairs, Digital Surgeries provide an opportunity for students to gain an insight into the parliamentary system and the chance to build confidence in public speaking and debating.

Mr Gillan, a humanities teacher, said: “Digital surgeries are a hugely beneficial experience for our students.

"They are an opportunity to speak out and debate current affairs with high profile British politicians.

"Wellacre students enjoyed focusing on some of the big issues that our country is facing and asked impressive questions and voiced valid opinions on topics such as Brexit, climate change and education reform.”

As well as embedding Politics into the curriculum, Wellacre Academy has ensured it features in their co-curricular programme. After school clubs, including the Justice League and the Debating Society, provide opportunities for students to be active citizens and to use communications with local politicians to campaign for change on local and worldwide issues.