Mock Parliament: Final Preparation Session

Today I welcomed students from across the Forest of Dean’s six secondary schools to the District Council chamber for the final preparation session ahead of my Mock Parliament final debate event next week.

A big thank you to all the schools for making the trip over today and for the effort they’ve put into this programme — it’s been fantastic to see such strong engagement.

Students stepped confidently into roles across the political spectrum, from government and opposition benches to ministers, whips and backbenchers.

They debated two challenging topics, from plastic recycling incentive schemes to the prospect of a second Brexit referendum. They showed real passion, energy and respect as they debated it between opposing parties!

It was especially encouraging to see students not only putting forward their arguments but also responding constructively to others, learning how parliamentary voting works, and putting it into practice themselves.

I’m really proud of all involved and very much looking forward to seeing them in action at the final debate next week!