Malvern students become councillors for the day - The Malvern Observer

Malvern students become councillors for the day

Malvern Editorial 29th Oct, 2018   0

STUDENTS across Malvern tried their hand at being councillors as part of a Local Democracy Day.

Organised by Malvern Hills District Council, the third annual event was held at the Council House.

More than 30 students from high schools across the district took part in a range of challenges which saw them come face-to-face with some of the difficult decisions councillors have to make on a daily basis.

Pupils in the younger Key Stage Three age group were asked to present a pre-prepared petition on an issue of concern to them and to persuade the mock committee of councillors and officers why it was important and why action needed to be taken.




Meanwhile, the older Key Stage Four group took on the role of planning committee members and had to determine a controversial application.

They also got the chance to grill the council’s chief executive, a number of district and county councillors as well as Worcestershire County Council’s Youth Cabinet and officials from West Mercia Police and Worcestershire Health and Care Trust.


The winners on the day were Chantry High School in the older age group and Dyson Perrins in the younger age group.

The event is part of the council’s engagement action which aims to give young people a voice in the district.

Coun Andrea Morgan, chairman of Malvern Hills District Council, said: “These events aim to raise awareness of local democracy, how local authorities operate and how people can get involved in the decision making process.

“We were impressed with the ideas put forward by the young people, the persuasiveness of their arguments and their passion for the area.”

Printing

We can provide all of your printing needs at competitive rates.

Online Editions

Catch up on your local news by reading our e-editions on the Malvern Observer.

Advertising

Advertise with the Malvern Observer to reach your audience

Recruitment

Find a career you'll love with our free career finder website.