Local MP visits Riverside Primary
Riverside Primary School welcomed local Member of Parliament Peter Bedford for a Year 6 assembly during April, where pupils took the opportunity to discuss the issues that matter most to them and learn about the role of government.
Pupils asked Peter - who serves as the Conservative MP for Mid Leicestershire - about his plans to improve the local Birstall area and ensure there are sufficient facilities for young people to enjoy. Several pupils were particularly interested in the possibility of setting up a youth club locally and what support might be available to make this happen.
The enquiring minds of Year 6 pupils also raised questions about roads and transport, keen to learn more about the work being carried out to repair potholes and improve driving conditions in the local area. Alongside these community‑focused topics, pupils were curious about Peter’s day‑to‑day role as an MP and the different careers he held before entering politics.
Head of School Rachel Roberts said:
It was an incredible experience for our Year 6 children.
Peter spoke about his inspiring journey to becoming an MP and it has certainly had a wonderful impact on our pupils. Our children skilfully posed thoughtful questions to Peter on many issues that they are currently concerned about.
It was a wonderful experience to see how their voices are important and how they can be the creators of change!
Reflecting on his visit, Peter Bedford said:
It was great to visit Riverside Primary School in Birstall recently and host a Q and A with students to discuss the role of an MP, as well as meeting some of the teaching staff.
I am always keen to visit schools in Mid Leicestershire, as they provide valuable insights which can be helpful when asking the Government questions in the House of Commons or during meetings with ministers.
About the author
Lionheart Educational Trust