A group of our A-Level Politics students visited UK Parliament and the Supreme Court before half term.

Seventeen Year 12 pupils enjoyed the excursion to the capital, which Oynisa describes as being "one of the best school trips" that she has ever been on.

Oynisa said: "Our trip began with an early start and a long train journey, which included brownies made by Harriet - just what we needed to fuel our brains! Fridays at Parliament are usually quiet, but it was different this time due to a debate in the House of Commons on the Assisted Dying Bill. It would be fair to say that we got to witness history in the making! The whole “Golden Triangle” was buzzing - full of protestors, MPs, tourists and, of course, us. 

"Our tour started in the House of Commons, where we had a rare opportunity to witness a live debate in the chamber, led by Kim Leadbeater, who introduced the Assisted Dying Bill through a Private Members' Ballot on October 16th, 2024. With amendments being voted on, the Bill is set to return to the Commons on June 13th. Following that, we made our way into the House of Lords chamber, where we noticed a striking difference - there was no protective glass! This led to an interesting discussion; the glass in the Commons was installed after someone threw flour at former Prime Minister, Tony Blair! Mrs Jackson then led us, with touring skills better than any professional guide, to the Supreme Court. There, we had the chance to sit in the chairs of the justices, and learn about the significance of the Court moving from the House of Lords. 

"After lunch, during which Mr Thomas and Mrs Jackson bravely let us explore London on our own, we met Charlotte Cane, who is Liberal Democrat MP for Ely and East Cambridgeshire. Each of us had a chance to ask her questions regarding her work in Parliament, and her role in representing her constituents. This was one of the best school trips that I have ever been on. Not only was it educational, but it was most definitely fun!"

Enjoy lots more photos from the trip on our Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn pages!