Stockport College’s A level politics students had their course brought to life when they had the opportunity to meet Labour MP for Stockport Ann Coffey.
It is the first time the students have met an MP and it was a great chance for the group to further their understanding of British politics.
The MP for Stockport fronted a class of A Level and AS students and talked about life as an MP, before answering a host of questions from the vocal group.
Helen Grundy Lecturer for A level Government & Politics, said: “I was pleased the group asked such well-considered questions which demonstrated their enthusiasm for politics. I think they were also pleasantly surprised how willing Ann Coffey was to answer on a wide range of issues. Meeting their local MP has made the group even more enthusiastic about visiting Parliament and learning more about the political system in the UK.”
Rubbing shoulders with the corridors of power:
From left to right: Principal Stephen Carlisle, JAHANZEB SHAHEEN, ADAM ZRIHAN, Lecturer Helen Grundy, MP Ann Coffey, ADAM MELLOR, MASSIMO AJMONE, CHARLIE NICHOLSON-COCKER, SARA MYERSCOUGH.
Principal Stephen Carlisle said they had asked some extremely probing questions and thoroughly enjoyed listening to different views.
He said: “I thought it was extremely useful for the students to hear first-hand about life as an MP. I’m grateful to Ann for taking the time to come and speak to the class. I think the students got a lot out of it.”
After the visit MP Ann Coffey commented: “”I was impressed by the range of questions which the students raised, including the UK’s place in Europe and the recommendations of the Leveson report on press standards. As the visit followed National Parliament Week, I encouraged the students and their tutor to visit Parliament – it’s a good way of learning more about the history of Parliament and how our democracy worksAs the visit followed National Parliament Week, I encouraged the students to visit the House of Commons – it’s a good way to find out more about the history of Parliament and how our democracy works.”