The day began early with a departure from Plymouth Train Station, as students travelled to Westminster, arriving just in time for lunch. Once in Westminster, they enjoyed a sightseeing tour, taking in the stunning views of the River Thames, the Houses of Parliament, and the iconic Big Ben.

The highlight of the trip was the visit to the Parliamentary Education Centre, where students took part in a workshop on the Rule of Law. This was followed by a guided tour of the House of Commons, the House of Lords, and Westminster Hall, giving the students an inside look at the workings of the UK government.

One of the most memorable parts of the day was sitting in the public gallery of the House of Commons, where students observed a live debate on the ongoing Ukraine and Russia conflict. This allowed them to witness the UK’s role in supporting Ukraine and gain valuable insights into current global issues. The group then moved to the House of Lords, where they marvelled at the lavish decor of the chamber, with its rich red and gold tones. They also learnt about the fascinating topic of solar panels—where in the world they come from and how they are made.

The final segment of the day was a hands-on workshop, where students created petitions around important topics such as engineering, education, transport, and the environment. They discussed how they could raise awareness for their chosen issue, plan their campaign, and explore ways to fund their efforts. To make the experience even more special, students presented their petitions to local MP, Luke Pollard, who attended the workshop to hear their ideas.

The trip was a wonderful opportunity for students to engage with British Values, take part in civic activities, and experience a day that will leave a lasting impression.