Year 12 Trip to Parliament

On 22nd September, Year 12 Politics students and Mr Owen spent the day at the Houses of Parliament. Our first stop was Victoria tower which is the entrance used by the Queen for the state opening of Parliament. We then walked into the plush surroundings of the House of Lords, marvelling at it's opulence and historical atmosphere. After a brief Q&A our journey continued through the grand Central Lobby towards the House of Commons. There, we discussed with our guide how Parliamentary debates work, how a bill passes through the chamber, and what the role of the speaker was. We then were taken to the majestic Westminster Hall, all that remains of the medieval Palace of Westminster. In the afternoon we took part in a workshop on electoral systems and voting behaviour which saw us create political manifestos and hold a mini election. The trip was a huge success and really brought politics to life!