Primary school council members travel to Westminster to learn first-hand about democracy
Ten budding young leaders from Hartley Brook Primary Academy in Sheffield headed to the seat of power in Westminster, to learn more about the democratic process.
The pupils, aged eight to 11, are all School Council members and represent their peers in Years 4, 5 and 6. Some of the pupils also take on additional leadership responsibilities, such as being Reading and Eco Ambassadors.
The young leaders enjoyed a two-day educational visit to London, accompanied by Charlie Wragg, the school’s pastoral support worker, Cheryl Kemp, the Assistant Principal and Danielle Bentley, the Vice Principal.
The centrepiece of which was a guided tour of the Houses of Parliament. This gave them the opportunity to explore the House of Commons, the House of Lords and the historic Westminster Hall.
The group met Baroness Penn, who works in the House of Lords, and asked her about her role. The experience allowed the pupils to connect their understanding of democracy, representation and decision-making with the real people and institutions involved in public life.
The trip also gave the children a chance to experience the capital city. They travelled by train from Sheffield to St Pancras International and then used the London Underground to navigate their way around.
Hartley Brook hopes that the trip will have given the school council members the opportunity to develop their pupil voice, understand democratic processes, build confidence and take on responsibility.
Danielle Bentley, Vice Principal of Hartley Brook Primary Academy, said: “The children were absolutely fantastic throughout the visit and travelled with confidence, showing great independence and maturity.
“This was the second time we have organised this trip, having previously visited London with our School Council in March 2025.
“Both visits have provided our pupils with a valuable opportunity to develop their confidence, independence and understanding of democracy, while representing our school and making memorable experiences beyond the classroom.”