Earlier this year in April, students from Debating and Public speaking Society visited the Palace of Westminster for a tour of the building along with a workshop delivered by the education team there.
The tour was absolutely amazing! We visited both the House of Lords and the House of Commons, as well as many other rooms thick with history. We learnt about all of the special traditions that they have and the historical reasons for them. For example, did you know that the Queen is not allowed to enter the House of Commons without permission?
One of my favourite halls was filled with statues of past Prime Ministers and was the previous House of Commons – the one where Spencer Perceval was assassinated.
Nothing compared to the Grandeur of the House of Lords though. The Queen’s seat was astonishing and was made of handcrafted wood, gilded with gold and jewels! It was particularly interesting as the Queen will be opening a new session of Parliament soon so will be sitting in that very seat again.
Nonetheless, being inside both houses was so special as it felt important to stand in a place that has appeared in so many important speeches, it was a real privilege. We learnt so much on the tour about the history of the houses, all about the workings of parliament and the important decisions made there every day.
The workshop was very good as well, we first answered some questions on laws in Great Britain, and then had a small, Parliament style debate.
Debating inside the Houses of Parliament was such an amazing experience and everyone had such good points to share. Thank you so much Miss Coutts and Mr V for taking us, it’s something we will never forget.
Jess and Ava Yr9
