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Empowering Young Citizens: Highlights from a Dynamic Term

The past term has been an inspiring period for Citizenship GCSE students (Whole School - 16/12/2024)

The past term at New College Leicester has been an inspiring period for Citizenship GCSE students, filled with educational visits, influential guest speakers, and opportunities to engage with real-world issues. From exploring the workings of the European Union to interacting with prominent figures in politics and media, students have gained valuable insights into democracy, representation, and active citizenship.

3rd September: Understanding the EU

GCSE Citizenship students began their term with an introduction to the workings of the European Union, delivered by Asher Jacobsberg, the European Parliament Ambassador Schools Co-ordinator in the UK. This session provided students with a deeper understanding of the EU’s role in Europe and its impact on the UK, sparking curiosity about international governance and collaboration.

6th September: Visit from Rt. Hon Liz Kendall MP

A highlight of the term was the visit from the Rt. Hon Liz Kendall MP, the Cabinet Minister for Work and Pensions. During her Q&A session with Citizenship students, she shared insights into her new role and addressed local community concerns.

Ramsey reflected on the session, saying, “It was an interesting visit, and we found out that the government is aiming to build more houses. I would have asked her what Keir Starmer is like!”
Ekanpreet added, “I learned that she is hoping to increase school funding and build 1.5 million homes in the UK. She was very passionate about young people getting a good education, which is what I liked about her. She seems very genuine.”

4th November: Celebrating Women’s Rights with Peter Barratt

Year 7 students were fortunate to hear from Peter Barratt, the great-grandson of renowned suffragette Alice Hawkins. Mr. Barratt delivered an inspiring speech on women’s rights, offering a detailed presentation on Alice Hawkins’ life and legacy. His visit brought history to life, connecting past struggles for equality with present-day conversations on gender rights.

17th October & December: Tackling Fake News with the BBC

Students participated in BBC Bitesize’s Other Side of the Story workshops, focusing on misinformation and fake news. A team from BBC Bitesize guided students in creating their own films, providing hands-on experience in media literacy.

The BBC team praised the students’ creativity and engagement, stating, “New College Leicester has been brilliant to work with from start to finish. The pupils were so creative, engaged, and incredibly well-behaved. They ended up creating some amazing newsreels, showcasing their intelligence and thoughtfulness. We’re looking forward to continuing our fantastic relationship with New College in the future.”

Student Representation: Young People’s Council Elections

Democracy was in action as five candidates stood for election to Leicester City Council’s Young People’s Council (YPC). With over 300 votes cast, Benjamin Taylor and Harmony Uwujare were elected as representatives for the Western Ward. They will attend monthly meetings with the local council to address issues affecting young people across Leicester.

18th November: Research with Professor Lee Jerome and the ACE Project

Professor Lee Jerome from Middlesex University visited the school as part of the Agenda for Citizenship Education (ACE) project. His latest research, featured in the British Education Research Association, includes contributions from 12 New College Leicester students. The project explores how young people engage with current affairs and discuss controversial issues, providing a platform for students to voice their perspectives.

3rd December: Campaigning for Tomorrow’s Voters

The Tick for Tomorrow campaign encouraged young people to register to vote. The event was attended by Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews and Assistant Deputy Mayor Vi Dempster, who underscored the importance of youth participation in elections and civic life.

Student Parliament: Driving Change for Young People

The Student Parliament has been hard at work this term, creating opportunities for their peers. They met with the principal to develop a new manifesto and logo, “For the Students, With the Teachers: Engage, Evaluate, and Equalise.”

A key achievement was their contribution to the national climate emergency initiative, PACTS (Politicians Accountable for Climate to Students). Members wrote and produced a powerful video on the climate crisis, which opened an event in London. The event, attended by notable figures such as Lord Jim Knight, showcased the passion and eloquence of New College Leicester students. Event organisers were deeply impressed, remarking on the students’ ability to communicate with clarity and conviction.

From engaging with political leaders to tackling global issues and representing their peers, New College Leicester students have demonstrated their potential as informed, active citizens. Their commitment to learning, participation, and advocacy sets a shining example for young people everywhere. The future is undoubtedly in safe hands.