Local primary schools visit parliament with Dr Neil Hudson MP

Culgaith Church of England School, Lanercost Church of England Primary School, Morland Area Church of England School, and Nenthead Primary School were the most recent Penrith and The Border schools to benefit from access to the Palace of Westminster.

The Veterinary MP said he was ‘impressed’ by the range of questions asked with pupils keen to better understand how laws are passed and budgets created.

Penrith and The Border MP, Dr Neil Hudson, said: “Access to the mother of Parliaments must remain open to schools across the country, no matter how remote they may be. Hearing this week from some of the youngsters about how much it had enhanced their learning was so heart-warming. 

“Making sure the next generations are engaged with our political system and excited about seeing it is so important to our nation as a whole.”

The visits were enjoyed by staff and students alike with one local headteacher calling it a ‘huge adventure.

Culgaith Church of England School Headteacher, Lynn Dobinson, said: “From my point of view, our trip to London couldn’t happen without the visit to parliament - both educationally and financially.

Culgaith and Morland pupils with Dr Hudson (Image: Dr Neil Hudson)"It is a huge part of learning about government and developing pupil voice.

“The majority of my children (about 90%) have never been to London before this trip and most have never been on a train or used public transport.

“From start to finish, it is a huge adventure for them. We also come from such a rural area, that the chance to be in a city and experience all a city offers is also huge and allows them to see beyond Cumbrian life!”

Isaac, who is a year 6 pupil from Culgaith, said: “I was interested to learn how they did the votes and it was strange to see this in person and not on TV. The building was decorative and full of statues and paintings and that was a surprise.”

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Should other local school groups wish to visit the Houses of Parliament, they are encouraged to get in touch with Dr Hudson’s Office.