Oakmeadow School Council experience local democracy at Guildhall

Shropshire Council welcomed the School Council from Oakmeadow School, Bayston Hill, to The Guildhall recently for a very special visit to learn more about local democracy and how Shropshire Council works.

Oakmeadow School Council on their visit to the Guildhall

Cllr Teri Trickett first met the children earlier this year while they were taking part in their own School Council elections and welcomed them to The Guildhall in Shrewsbury to experience local democracy in action.

During their visit last Monday, the children enjoyed a guided tour of the Guildhall including a visit to the new Guildhall Café. When questioned by the pupils, council leader Cllr Heather Kidd explained that the café was one of the first projects introduced during her time as Leader and said she was very proud of how it has created a welcoming hub where staff and visitors can meet, chat and connect with one another.

The children were then introduced to the Council Chamber where they took part in an engaging question and answer session with Chairman of Shropshire Council Duncan Borrowman, council leader Cllr Heather Kidd and cabinet member for  children and education Andy Hall. The pupils asked thoughtful and intelligent questions including about the challenges and rewards of being a councillor and helping to make decisions for local communities.

Following the session, the children held their very own council meeting in the chamber. They learned about council procedures and how meetings are conducted on a daily basis before debating ways to improve school lunchtimes. The discussion produced a wide range of imaginative ideas and demonstrated just how engaged and proactive the pupils are in representing their fellow students.

One of the highlights of the visit came at the end when every child had the opportunity to ring the historic council bell from HMS Shropshire, which is traditionally rung at the beginning of Full Council meetings and was gifted to the authority. Cllr  Trickett could not resist opening the children’s meeting by ringing the bell as well.

Andy Hall, portfolio holder for children and education, said:

We had a fantastic time with the young people; they were all incredibly engaged and asked some insightful, well thought out questions. It’s always inspiring to see their enthusiasm and curiosity.

Within my portfolio, I’m keen to encourage more schools and young people to get involved with Shropshire Council and take an active role in our decision-making processes. These young people are not only the custodians of our county, but also the leaders of the future. By involving them now, we’re helping shape a stronger, more inclusive Shropshire for everyone

If your school would be interested in arranging a similar educational visit to the Guildhall, please contact your local councillor.