School children get a taste of local democracy

· by · in Children, Children, Schools and Families, Education and schools, Events. ·

Merton Council organised a range of activities to mark Local Democracy Week 2015.

Last week (12 – 16 October), the Civic Centre opened its doors to the borough’s primary school children, offering the opportunity to tour the building, including taking a look at the Council Chamber, where all the major local decisions are made, going up on the roof which looks out over London, and visiting the Mayor’s Parlour, where the Mayor, Councillor David Chung spoke to the children about his ceremonial duties.

As part of Local Democracy Week, local MP Siobhain McDonagh will be taking schools from her constituency on a tour of the Houses of Parliament next month. An opportunity also available to Wimbledon schools through their MP, Stephen Hammond. Local councillors will also be giving a talk on democracy to the Merton Children’s Council.

Local Democracy Week aims to encourage democratic participation and inspire young people to get involved in local politics.

Merton’s cabinet member for children’s services, Councillor Maxi Martin, said: “Our young people are the future of this borough and Local Democracy Week is a great way to spark their interest in local decision making.”

ENDS