16 Students Take Part in Politics and Democracy Summer School Hosted by Gareth Snell MP and Stoke-on-Trent Sixth Form College

16 students took part in an action-packed Politics and Democracy Summer School hosted by Gareth Snell MP in partnership with Stoke-on-Trent Sixth Form College from 22^nd to 26^th June 2026.

Selected through a competitive application process run by college staff, the students spent the week exploring the inner workings of British politics and democracy through a programme of activities, workshops and exclusive visits designed to broaden their understanding of public life and political institutions.

At the start of the week, Gareth challenged the students to develop their own Private Members’ Bills, which they would present to a cross-party judging panel on the final day of the programme. Working in teams, students spent the week researching, debating and refining their proposals before competing for prizes.

A highlight of the week came on Tuesday, when the group travelled to London for a packed day of political engagement and behind-the-scenes access. Students were given a tour of the Palace of Westminster, including both the House of Commons and the House of Lords, before taking part in a special question-and-answer session with the Speaker of the House of Commons in his private study.

The group then watched Treasury Questions from the Commons Gallery, giving them a first-hand insight into parliamentary scrutiny in action. They later visited the Cabinet Office, where they met Minister Darren Jones MP and Baroness Ruth Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent to discuss their experiences in government. Students also spoke with civil servants about the wide range of career opportunities available within the Civil Service.

The day concluded with an exclusive tour of 10 Downing Street. From the Cabinet Room to the White Room, where Prime Ministers welcome visiting leaders and dignitaries, students were able to see some of the most historic and influential spaces in British politics. They also followed in the footsteps of famous occupants including Sir Robert Walpole, Clement Attlee and Winston Churchill – and Downing Street’s most famous resident, Larry the Cat.

The visit to London was made possible thanks to the generous donation of train tickets by Avanti West Coast.

Throughout the week, students also heard from a political journalist and members of Gareth Snell MP’s team, providing further insight into careers in politics, public service and communications.

The programme concluded with presentations of the students’ Private Members’ Bills to a cross-party panel consisting of Gareth Snell, Labour and Co-operative MP for Stoke-on-Trent Central, and Councillor Lorraine Beardmore, Leader of the Conservative Group on Stoke-on-Trent City Council.

The winning team presented the ‘Youth Rejuvenation Bill’, which proposed the creation of more youth clubs and outdoor play facilities for young people aged between eight and sixteen, with the aim of improving opportunities, wellbeing and community engagement for local young people.

The summer school provided participants with a unique opportunity to experience politics first-hand, develop new skills and gain a deeper understanding of how democracy works in practice.

Gareth said: “I have been incredibly impressed by the enthusiasm, commitment and ambition that students have demonstrated throughout every activity and challenge across the week.

“The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and the visit to Parliament was undoubtedly one of the highlights of the programme. Opportunities like this are invaluable for communities like ours, helping to break down barriers to political engagement and giving young people first-hand insight into the wide range of careers and opportunities available within politics and public service.

“My sincere thanks go to Stoke-on-Trent Sixth Form College and Avanti West Coast for their support and partnership. Without their contribution, this programme would not have been possible.”

Andrew Colclough, Teacher of Politics at Stoke-on-Trent Sixth Form College said: “Both the students and staff were extremely grateful for the opportunity to take part in this summer school. It exceeded our expectations in every way and quickly developed into something very special. From the outset, students fully bought into the challenge of developing their own Private Members’ Bills. Their commitment was exceptional, with many choosing to meet outside of college hours to conduct additional research, refine proposals, and prepare for the final presentations. The level of enthusiasm and ownership they demonstrated throughout the week was remarkable.

“The visit to Westminster and 10 Downing Street was, of course, an unforgettable experience. To walk through some of the most important political institutions in the country and see the heart of British government first-hand is something that will stay with both students and staff for the rest of our lives. We are incredibly grateful to Gareth Snell MP, his team, and all those involved in making the programme possible. Opportunities of this quality can be truly transformative for young people, and we would love to see this become an annual event for students at Stoke-on-Trent Sixth Form College.”