Dr Neil Hudson MP met with youngsters from four local primary schools in one day to answer their questions and teach them more about his role as their representative.
In the morning Dr Hudson visited Culgaith Church of England Primary School and Long Marton Community School before visiting Crosby Ravensworth Church of England School where children from Morland Area Church of England Primary School were also in attendance.
The pupils asked questions on a range of pressing issues from animals, the environment and farming to renewable energies, international affairs and our democracy.
Dr Hudson's visit coincided with the end of SATs examinations and teaching staff were keen to impress upon their pupils the importance of their wellbeing by implementing coping strategies and resilience. This is part of a holistic approach that incorporates outdoor education, keeping active and healthy eating.
A passionate advocate for young people's mental health, Dr Hudson recently joined charity champions, the3 Dads Walking in welcoming new Government guidance on teaching mental health in secondary schools. You can read more about the announcement here: https://www.neilhudson.org.uk/news/dr-neil-hudson-mp-celebrates-new-government-guidance-suicide-prevention-teaching-working-3
Should other local school groups wish to visit the Houses of Parliament or organise for Dr Hudson to meet pupils, they are encouraged to get in touch with him and his team at: [email protected]. More information about visiting Parliament can be found here: https://learning.parliament.uk/en/session-workshop/tours-and-workshops
Dr Neil Hudson MP said:
"Its such a privilege to meet youngsters from across Penrith and The Border and hear about the issues important to them. I'm always thoroughly impressed by the level of debate and find the discussions so rewarding.
"Politically engaged citizens who are invested in their local communities are the bedrock of a healthy functioning democracy. Whichever political movements our young folk decide upon in adulthood, I do think it is incumbent upon us adults to educate the next generations about our political systems and get them excited about their role within it.
"We've got some really good caring local primary schools and I was delighted to see, amid SATs exams, such an emphasis being placed upon resilience, wellbeing and coping strategies - tools that will no doubt serve them well as they traverse life's various pressures."
