February 17, 2009
MP HELPS SCHOOL WITH PARLIAMENT COMPETITION ENTRY
STUDENTS at Rawmarsh Community School impressed their MP with their enthusiasm and interest in Parliament when he paid a visit on Friday.
John Healey visited the school to help them prepare their entry for the Citizenship Foundation’s National Youth Parliament Competition 2008/09, sponsored by the Ministry of Justice.
The Wentworth MP said: “By entering the competition these young people are gaining a better understanding of the democratic process and how our country is run. This active learning competition gives them an opportunity to tackle issues that are key to their everyday lives and brings to life the House of Commons.”
Students have to take on the roles of government, opposition and backbench MPs to recreate the Parliamentary chamber and make a video of their debate on a mock bill.
Rawmarsh School have chosen to debate the issue of the London 2012 Olympics.
Up to 30 students could be involved in the entry. The student council is taking the lead but pupils from all years seven to 11 are being included. They are also hoping to involve multi-media students with doing the filming.
This is not Rawmarsh’s first taste of the workings of Westminster – in November last year a group took a trip to the House of Commons when they met Mr Healey and watched a debate in the Chamber.
The Youth Parliament competition is aimed at developing skills of research, discussion, public speaking, analysis, communication and teamwork and help them think about current political, moral and social issues.
The competition, now in its 18th year, is organised by the Citizenship Foundation and sponsored by Ministry of Justice.
Winners will be invited to a reception at Westminster.
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