Marsha de Cordova, Member of Parliament for Battersea, extended an invitation to a group of Emanuel students to meet with her at the Palace of Westminster on Thursday 17th November, ‘I want to hear from you: whether it’s about skills and employment opportunities, tackling the climate emergency, or any other issues that are important to you.’ A total of eight students from Year 11, L6 and U6, selected in recognition of their sterling contribution to pupil voice groups such as the Archer, Athena and Senior Debating Societies and the co-curricular life of the school, accompanied Ms Aitken-Burt and Mr Andrews to the Palace of Westminster.
A senior political advisor hosted a collaborative focus group activity involving Emanuel and St John Bosco College. This took place in the Select Committee Room and encompassed a wide range of themes: climate and environment, crime and policing, employment opportunities, mental health, immigration and refugees, online hate and bullying, the cost of living, gender inequality, racial inequality, and education.
A nuanced and thoughtful discussion followed, chaired by Ms de Cordova herself, providing ideas for a Youth Summit due to take place in Battersea Arts Centre in February 2023.
The whole experience was truly unforgettable and, Ilse, Isabelle, Leela, Luca, Rebecca, Eva, Sophia and Freya were outstanding ambassadors for Emanuel.
Mr Andrews (Senior Tutor)
