Clare Pedlar, Assistant Headteacher and Personal Development Lead at Noel-Baker, was chosen to attend the three-day programme at the Palace of Westminster alongside teachers from across the UK.
The programme gave participants a unique insight into the work of Parliament, including watching debates in the House of Commons and House of Lords, meeting parliamentary and taking part in discussions with Speaker of the House of Commons, Sir Lindsay Hoyle.
During the visit, Clare was given a tour of Speaker’s House by Sir Lindsay Hoyle and met several members of the House of Lords, including Baroness Shah, a former teacher who shared her journey from education into public service and her commitment to supporting young people.
Drawing on the programme, including sessions on the petitions process, Clare will create new opportunities for students to explore Parliament, democracy and active citizenship through the academy’s personal development curriculum.
One of the first outcomes of the programme will see 30 Noel-Baker Academy students visit the House of Commons during UK Parliament Week in November, giving them the opportunity to experience democracy in action and deepen their understanding of citizenship and public life. Clare also extended an invitation to Sir Lindsay Hoyle to visit the academy in the future.
“It was a privilege to take part in the UK Parliament Teacher Ambassador Programme and experience Parliament from the inside. Watching debates in both Houses and speaking with colleagues from across the country gave me new ideas and practical resources that I can’t wait to bring back to our students.
“I hope this experience helps make democracy feel more accessible and relevant, encouraging young people to understand how Parliament works and recognise that their views and participation really do matter.”
“We are so pleased that Clare was selected for this programme. Helping students develop an understanding of democracy and citizenship is an important part of the education we provide, and the knowledge Clare has gained will strengthen that work across the academy.
“ The opportunity for our students to visit Parliament is a fantastic example of how this programme will have a lasting impact. It is so important that our young people have the opportunity to engage with current affairs and better understand the democratic institutions that shape their lives.”
