Mrs Copp (Deputy Head of Junior School)

On Thursday, Year 6 were given the opportunity to learn about the work and role of the House of Commons and the House of Lords. They found out about the difference between the UK Parliament and Government, the work of MPs and members of the House of Lords, how laws are made and how they can get their voices heard. Year 6 were encouraged to consider the qualities that a member of parliament should possess and many referred to the IB learner attributes such as being open minded, good communicators, able to reflect and able to communicate as public speakers. 

As the Year 6 unit of inquiry focuses on the central idea, Government systems and decisions can promote or deny equal opportunities and social justice, this was the perfect way in to opening up discussions about how the UK is governed. The pupils were asked to think of a person they thought would be suitable to take a position as a member of the House of Lords, aged over 21, a British citizen and who would be able to bring benefit to the people through their expertise. One suggestion was Sir David Attenborough as he is a man of principle and would bring about awareness and action for climate change, conservation and preservation.

The students were encouraged to think about local and national issues and invited to write to their local Bedford MP, Mohammad Yasin, if they have ideas for positive change as a part of being proactive learners.

Sylvia (Year 6) said: “It was really fascinating to learn about the way people are elected - some are voted for and some appointed.”

Amelia (Year 6) found it very interesting and her favourite fact was that the Houses of Parliament had over 1000 rooms and it’s easy to get lost in there!

Francesca (Year 6) liked finding out about how some people can inherit a peerage from their parents.