Pupils of Gosforth school, Newcastle School for Boys, were recently joined by Newcastle North MP, Catherine McKinnell.
Students studying A-level Politics at the school’s Sixth Form, as well as those interested in the subject, had the unique experience of their own private Question Time-style event with Mrs McKinnell.
The boys took the opportunity to ask the Labour MP questions on issues studied as part of the A Level syllabus and also on issues of current affairs such as the leadership of the Labour Party, and the EU referendum.
After a brief explanation of how she got into politics, by campaigning as a student to introduce fair trade products at outlets across her university, the Member for Parliament asked if the boys had any questions adding she hoped they weren’t “like anything on Question Time”.
But the boys led a tough line of questioning on issues studied in Politics, such as English Votes for English Laws and the role of a backbench MP, along with more topical subjects such as the low turnout of young voters in the General Election and the role of women in politics.
Of the event, Catherine McKinnell MP said:
‘Visiting schools across Newcastle North, and hearing the views of young people, is one of my favourite parts of being an MP. From nursery age up to sixth form students, they are never afraid to put you on the spot, and their questions are always pretty challenging!’
Pupils from the school expressed what a great experience it had been both in gaining valuable insight into the subjects they were studying and for seeing the theory in action. Boys could be overheard discussing the answers to their questions for much of the rest of the day.
‘This was a great opportunity for the boys to hear a first-hand perspective of current political affairs and gain an understanding of the reality of a career in politics. The boys at the school benefit hugely from opportunities such as this, relating their learning to real world contexts. We are very grateful to Mrs McKinnell for offering up her time to us’, said Mr Tickner, Headmaster.