Schools and youth groups across the country took part in UK Parliament Week last week, with pupils learning more about democracy and how decisions are made nationally and locally.
Frome & East Somerset MP Anna Sabine joined the celebrations by spending time with children and young people across her constituency, answering questions and offering an insight into life in Westminster.
Anna began the week in Holcombe with the local Brownies and Girl Guides, who quizzed her on everything from how she decides which way to vote to the biggest decisions she has faced so far. A brief question about what happens if an MP dies in the Chamber quickly became the group’s main line of inquiry, leaving everyone with a newfound concern for the wellbeing of peers in the House of Lords.
Later in the week, Anna spent a day touring primary schools across the constituency. Her first stop was Norton Hill Primary in Midsomer Norton, where pupils held their own school-wide referendum. With Anna’s support, teachers pitched their subjects as candidates for the school’s End of Year Subject Day before students headed to polling booths they had built themselves to cast their votes. Although Anna had to leave before the final count, she said she is looking forward to hearing which subject wins.
At Shoscombe Primary School, pupils showcased their project on pollution in the Wellow Brook. They questioned Anna on how the brook can be better protected and how to ensure Wessex Water follows through on its commitment to reduce phosphate levels.
“I love speaking to young people about the issues that matter to them,” Anna said. “I am their MP too, and their thoughts and concerns are every bit as important as those of the adults I represent.”
“It’s inspiring to see children so engaged — whether they’re learning about the democratic process or tackling big issues like environmental protection. The decisions we make today will shape their future, and their voices deserve to be heard.”
After lunch, Anna visited Trinity Church School in Radstock, where pupils had spent the week learning about the House of Commons and House of Lords. Their Q&A session included everything from Anna’s daily routine to what she hopes to achieve during her time in Parliament.
The day concluded at St Mary’s Primary School in Writhlington, where pupils staged a lively mock Parliament. Split into parties and assigned roles including Speaker and Ministers, the children debated — complete with spirited heckling — whether parents should be banned from driving their children to school. The motion was ultimately defeated, ensuring parents can continue the school run without fear of prohibition.
“Parliament Week is a fantastic opportunity to get children excited about democracy and their place within it,” Anna said. “We all have a role to play and a voice that deserves to be heard. Instilling that confidence in young people from an early age is hugely important.”
