The next generation of politicians and voters were given a lesson in democracy from Winchester MP Steve Brine in the run up to their own school elections.
Mr Brine spoke to 120 pupils aged nine to eleven at St Bede CE Primary School about his work in Westminster and the role of MPs. Mr Brine also shared handy tips on how to get elected.
The children got a chance to grill the MP on his work in the House of Commons and how he got into politics during the visit on Friday 18th September.
The visit came just days before the school's Year Six pupils were due to hold elections for responsibility posts including head girl and boy, house captain and heads of sport, music and the library.
As well as giving the youngster practical advice about elections, Mr Brine's visit was a chance for children to learn more about fundamental British values of democracy and free speech – now part of the national curriculum.
Steve Brine said: "I love doing these sessions to help education young people about what an MP does and what is parliament is for. This was extra special because I was able to give them some tips ahead of their upcoming school elections.
"Democracy is a fundamental British value which is now a key part of the national curriculum and I hope an MP coming into school helps to bring this alive."
Head teacher Sarah Duck said: "It's really important that children understand how democracy works and what elected leaders do. Visits like this help to bring it to life, particularly in the run up to the school's own elections for positions of responsibility."
St Bede CE Primary School in Gordon Road, Winchester has 445 pupils.
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