Our students have been given a tour of the UK’s highest court during an eye-opening trip to Westminster.
Fourteen Parliament Ambassadors from the college, and one from Harrogate College, visited the Supreme Court and the Houses of Parliament during a two-day visit to the capital.
They also got to sit in the gallery during sessions of the House of Commons and House of Lords during their stay, and took part in a mock election workshop.
The trip was designed to help the students, aged from 17 to 26, see democracy in action as part of a project that will conclude with them using what they’ve learnt to educate others.
For Robert Mamaia, who’s studying a Level 3 National Diploma in Music, it all added up to a very memorable first trip to the capital. He said: “The London trip was an amazing experience. I really enjoyed visiting the Houses of Parliament and getting to see how everything works inside, it gave me a better understanding of how laws are made and how our country is run.
“The Supreme Court and Houses of Parliament were both really interesting and getting to see them in person really cemented the history and procedures of the places. I learnt about the Magna Carta and previous case history, as well as how debates worked in the House of Commons and House of Lords.
“We also got to see really cool places like Buckingham Palace. The trip was my first time in London and it was definitely worth it.”
The visit was part of the Parliament Ambassador Programme that is being delivered by the Student Life Enrichment team, and funded by the GMB union.
The scheme has also involved the students taking part in six democracy workshops to increase their knowledge of the county’s parliamentary and legal systems.
Student Voice and Social Action Lead, Lindsey Topham-Whitton, said: “It was a delight to take our Parliament Ambassadors on a two-day trip to London.
“This was a fantastic way to bring the content of our bespoke democracy workshops to life. Our programme plays a crucial role in promoting British values, with our learners being influential among their peers and vital in developing others’ knowledge of democracy.
“All of the students reported that our workshops had significantly improved their understanding of the UK Parliament and now, thanks to this trip, learners have developed a wide range of skills.
“In addition to deepening their knowledge of democracy and history, most have also said that it has enhanced their independence and boosted their self-confidence and collaboration skills.
“We’re so grateful to the GMB for their invaluable support in making this experience possible, and we look forward to developing the programme in the future.”
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Our College Parliament has met in Leeds Civic Hall again for the first time since the pandemic.
The Members of College Parliament (MCPs) assembled in the Council Chambers to discuss our student community’s main concerns with senior members of staff.
During the event the MCPs reported back on the results of Make Your Mark: a scheme which asks young people to vote for three issues – from a list of seven – that are most important to them.
This year’s consultation, held during UK Parliament Week in November, marked a milestone for our college in terms of participation, with more than 3,100 students casting their vote.
The ‘top three’ topics chosen by learners at each of our campuses then formed the agenda for December’s College Parliament.
Access to mental health support, getting more opportunities for work experience, volunteering and jobs, and crime and safety were all highlighted as pressing concerns.
In response, Wellbeing Team Leader Jason Charles said he would be visiting each campus in the new year to raise awareness of mental health support services and to discuss new wellbeing initiatives.
The MCPs also reported on students feeling unprepared for job-hunting, with international learners facing additional barriers.
Business Engagement Officer Holly Dewing was grateful for the feedback. She said: “We’ll engage with students to determine the best ways to communicate and make workplace access more accessible.”
Social Action and Student Voice Lead Lindsey Topham-Whitton, meanwhile, who organised the event, emphasised the importance of open communication between staff and students. She said: “It can help us make better and more informed decisions, as a group, going forward.”
Our Executive Principal Bill Jones, who also fielded questions, echoed those sentiments. He said: “Hearing where we need to improve is really important.
“Most of all, we want your education to be outstanding and for you to be inspired by your teachers.”
Thanking the student representatives from each campus for their contributions, he added: “I’m really happy to know our MCPs have gone through a democratic process to get where we are.
“Democracy is precious. What you’re doing is democracy, and it cannot be taken for granted.
“Carry on being political, carry on being interested: you can and will change the world! Don’t be apathetic. If you don’t like something, change it – you have that power.”
Students’ Union President Qasim Shaik agreed: “Democracy is a very important thing, and it’s the reason I’m here and you guys are here. Your feedback really does make a difference.”
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