Aspire Schools' Parliament 2025
Close to 100 children from 30 Aspire primary schools have taken part in the Aspire Schools’ Parliament Week, an initiative created back in 2023 to inspire primary-aged children to get involved in local government.
On Monday 3rd March, 38 pupils from 14 Aspire primary schools spent the day at County Hall learning more about future career paths and the key personal and professional attributes required for such roles, as well as discovering what happens behind-the-scenes in local government. On Friday 7th March, a further 60 pupils from 16 Aspire schools also exercised their collaborative working skills, getting stuck into a range of team building and problem-solving tasks, in addition to learning about the planning and voting process, and designing placards highlighting issues they're passionate about as youngsters living in Cornwall.
On each of the Schools' Parliament days, our inquisitive and passionate pupils experienced a mock vote in the main debating chamber and had the chance to cross-examine local MPs and councillors. The adults were confidently and mercilessly grilled on such hot potato topics as why it is virtually impossible to get a dentist or doctor appointment and why it is schools don’t receive more funding (no prompts from the teachers, honest!). Over the two days, our grateful thanks in person must go to Cllr Ellenbroek, Cllr Perry and Cllr Guest; and to Ben Maguire MP (via Teams) and Jayne Kirkham MP (via video).
Luke Rees, Head of School at Tregolls Academy said, “ The opportunity has allowed our children to consider both the roles of a councillor and MP but also the growing network of careers that are starting to prosper in the South West. From the investment in renewable energy to the different careers linked to the local council, the children were able to consider what their future might hold. It was great to hear that Cornwall Council is interested in listening to the next generation, particularly when they are willing to ask those challenging questions!”
Francesca Humberstone, Head of School at Truro Learning Academy added, “The children really enjoyed the 'would you rather?' game, answering questions such as 'would you rather go on holiday to a hot or cold country?' and 'would you rather eat a raw lemon or a raw potato?' They had fun trying to convince their peers to join their side!”
I loved sitting in the important seats!
James Pritchard, Head of School at Bude Primary Academy – Juniors said, “This was an incredible event that continues to go from strength to strength. The journey into the heart of Cornish democracy was truly transformative for all our children who took part across the trust, making meaningful connections with our wider community. The activities were very well-designed. The organisation was outstanding, and the opportunities—especially the Q&A sessions with our MP—were invaluable. We look forward to bringing even more children next year. Thank you to everyone for making it happen”.
Aspire Schools’ Parliament event organiser Mark Harding, Y6 teacher/Assistant Head of School at Indian Queens Primary School concludes, "Inspiring young people to be active citizens and the belief democracy and local government is something they can actively participate in, and forge future career paths in, is at the heart of this event.
Children should be seen AND heard!
“It's crucial we have School Parliaments and School Councils working together to shape the future of all the schools in our trust. Critical pupil voice may not only help County develop and shape positively impactful policies for young people in the here and now, but also strengthens and celebrates Article 12 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), namely, “Every child has the right to express their views, feelings and wishes in all matters affecting them, and to have their views considered and taken seriously. This right applies at all times, for example during immigration proceedings, housing decisions or the child’s day-to-day home life."
A massive thank you to the Cornwall Council departments who have supported this initiative over the past couple of years, as well as to the MPs and councillors who give up their time to inspire children's interest in politics.
