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Students Stand for (Youth) Parliament
[19/03/2010]As the UK looks ahead to a general election later this year, learners from Otley College took part in a vote of their own.
In a mock election, 14 pre foundation students stand up in front of their peers and announced their very own political manifestos.
Pledges ranged from more social clubs at college, more Laser Quest for all and cheaper food for everyone.
After a secret vote - in which candidates could actually vote for themselves - Olly Minns and Stacey Allington were the outright winners.
This event was coordinated by Speaking Up - an organisation that aims to enable people who experience learning difficulties or other disabilities to find their voice and shape their own lives.
They (Speaking Up) are currently travelling to around 20 schools and colleges in the Eastern region with the aim of creating a youth parliament.
The two Otley winners will become part of that parliament and they will have the opportunity to speak to decision makers of the day at a range of events throughout the next 12 months.
Lisa Yearn, from Speaking Up attended the Otley event. She said, “This was the largest event that we have been involved in so far.”
“We will be holding similar occasions throughout Suffolk and we hope that future events will be as fun, enjoyable and educational as this one.”
Sarah Brunning, from Otley, said, “This was a big test for some of our students who had to stand up and talk in front of an audience of over 100 people.”
“That’s never easy but they all did remarkably well at this topical and intriguing experience.”
This project is being funded by Suffolk County Council.