Pupils quiz politicians on local issues

Councillor Dale Mulgrew with Teacher Andy Kennedy and pupils from Springhill High School

Pupils at Springhill High School proved their political know-how when they put local Councillor Dale Mulgrew and Rochdale’s MP Paul Rowen on the spot.

Both Councillor Mulgrew and Paul Rowen were invited down to the school to give a talk to year nine pupils who were learning more about citizenship and local government as part of their Personal, Health, Social & Citizenship Education Class (PHSCE).

Springhill High School teacher, Andy Kennedy said: “The children found the issue really interesting. They said both Councillor Mulgrew and Paul Rowen MP were brilliant for answering all their questions in such a friendly way and they also appreciated the fact that they both gave personal opinions as well as information about the decisions that they have taken.

“The pupils were keen to discuss a number of issues that affect them from education to transport. The issues that pupils were most concerned with however were crime, policing and gangs. A number of pupils expressed a real fear for their safety on their local streets and blamed the increase in gang culture and lack of a police presence. They all valued Councillor Mulgrew’s and Paul’s answers and I thank them for taking the time to speak to our pupils."

Balderstone & Kirkholt Councillor Dale Mulgrew said: “It was a great experience visiting Springhill High and discussing local government with some of their talented year nine pupils. One cannot fail to be impressed by the sheer energy of their teacher Mr Kennedy, who arranged my visit. Although I was able to give a brief explanation on what the Council does, the really interesting part of the visit for me was when the questions started to flow from the pupils. This initiated real debate, with some really interesting comments voiced and insightful true life experiences shared.

“These are things I will reflect upon and I know that both classes will now be writing to me with a summary of what was discussed. I look forward to giving a response which will give evidence that action has been taken in relation to their issues and concerns, and that progress is being made.”

Paul Rowen MP said: “It is important that citizenship is not just seen as a dry theoretical subject. It’s about what young talented pupils, such as the ones I met at Springhill High School, can do for our town and how they can become more active citizens within our communities. I was really impressed by the pupils on my visit as they demonstrated a true knowledge and passion for the things they believe in. It was very encouraging that the pupils were so enthusiastic and so keen to learn more about their local council. Hopefully this will be the start of a lifelong engagement with local politics for many of them.”