On Friday, 18 September we welcomed South Ribble Youth Parliament representative, Freddie Burnett-Cherry and Lancashire County Council's Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, Cllr Matthew Salter for a special visit focused on listening to the views and experiences of young people.

During their visit, Freddie and Cllr Salter toured the school and spent time meeting with young people to learn more about the issues that matter most to them. 

This visit gave pupils a valuable opportunity to take part in a pupil voice clinic modelled on the constituency advice surgeries often held by elected representatives. The session enabled young people to raise issues that matter to them, share suggestions for improving school and community life, and experience how concerns can be presented to those in positions of influence.

Pupils engaged confidently in discussions on a range of topics affecting young people today. They asked thoughtful questions, expressed their views with maturity, and gained insight into how local government and youth representation work together to support communities. One pupil who wishes to go into a political career received careers advice.

The clinic helped pupils develop their understanding of democracy, representation and civic responsibility. It reinforced the importance of respectful dialogue and showed pupils that their ideas and experiences can contribute to meaningful conversations about positive change in their local area.

Personal Development Lead, Ms Smith said, "We would like to again thank Freddie and Cllr Salter for taking the time to visit Priory and for providing our pupils with the opportunity to have their concerns and opinions heard.”

Freddie added: “The students were incredibly welcoming, knowledgeable, and the personal development standards at the school were of an incredible standard and are sure to have a very positive long-term effect on the students”.

We look forward to hearing more about Freddie's work later this term and seeing the positive impact that young people's voices can have across South Ribble.