UK Parliament Week, which runs from 6 to 12 November, is one of the highlights of the year for Pevensey MP, Huw Merriman, as it involves getting out to schools and colleges to talk about democracy and Parliament.
This year he kicked off Parliament Week by joining Pevensey and Westham CE Primary School pupils for a whole of school assembly to talk about his work as a Member of Parliament. He was also asked to introduce the theme of their new learning journey “Courageous Advocacy.”
The pupils enthusiastically discussed with Huw what they thought it meant. They gave examples of how they could stand up for a person or an issue they cared about such as road safety outside the school and looking after the environment.
Following the assembly, Huw met with the new School Council representatives. They explained to the MP how they were elected by their classmates to represent them and why they wanted to take on the role and responsibility.
Huw said “It is always such a pleasure to visit the pupils of Pevensey and Westham CE Primary School. The school always takes part in UK Parliament Week when the children learn about democracy, Parliament and government. I am really pleased to support them in this. The pupils always have direct and challenging questions for me and demonstrate a real interest in the wider world, as well as caring for each other and their communities.”
Deputy Headteacher Kelly Kerr said “Pupils thoroughly enjoyed having the opportunity to hear from Huw about his role in politics and how he is a courageous advocate. Our school council are looking forward to Huw’s return later in the year, where they will have the chance to talk about how they would choose to spend the government budget.”
UK Parliament Week is an annual festival that engages people from across the UK with their UK Parliament, explores what it means to them and empowers them to get involved. Last year there were over 10,000 activities and 1.1 million people taking part in all 650 constituencies in the UK.
In photo: New School Councillors and adults left to right Huw Merriman MP, Luke Paramor – Headteacher, Kelly Kerr - Deputy Head
