Esh Winning teacher wins Houses of Parliament experience

Kaye Burns, a teacher from Esh Winning Primary School, took part in the UK Parliament Teacher Ambassador programme.

The opportunity gave participants the chance to watch debates within the House of Commons and House of Lords, and to learn more about the role of MPs, Lords, doorkeepers and select committees.

Teachers can then use the knowledge they have gained over the three-day course to educate their students on Parliamentary procedures in classes and assemblies.

They were also given the chance to quiz Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker of the House of Commons. Sir Lindsay used the opportunity to thank teachers for their hard work and for encouraging young people to take part in school elections and debates.

Sir Lindsay Hoyle addressed the teachers (Image: UK PARLIAMENT)

“Without you we wouldn’t have a new generation of politicians coming through,” he told the group.

“Who knows you might even be teaching the next MP, Prime Minister or Speaker.”

Kaye met with her local MP, Mary Kelly Foy (City of Durham) and together they discussed topics of particular interest to her.

These included improving the mental health of children and young people, the impact of long wait times for referrals into services that support children and the ways in which children are taught that they have a vital part in shaping the future of local areas, UK Parliament and our laws and policies.

MP Mary Kelly Foy, left, with Kaye Burns (Image: UK PARLIAMENT)

“This has been a once in a lifetime opportunity, never did I think that I would be able to visit Parliament, let alone see and speak to members of our government," said Kaye.

“I asked Mr Speaker the first question, which was to share his journey to Parliament and how we as teachers can inspire the next generation of leaders."

Kaye Burns, of Esh Winning Primary School, poses at Big Ben before the event at the Houses of Parliament (Image: UK PARLIAMENT)

Lord McFall, the Lord Speaker, said: “The Teacher Ambassador Programme is exceptionally well-regarded by the participants each year, and I welcome the opportunity to explore the work of the House of Lords with such a dedicated audience.

“As a former teacher and one who has a continuing engagement with young people, I know how keen they are to understand how politics works in practice. This successful initiative is a great opportunity to encourage that interest.”

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Kaye will be taking steps to educate her students on Parliament, democracy and local government to make sure that from a young age they understand the importance of getting involved, having a voice and being heard.

She said: “Personally, it is the start of something exciting in working to improve opportunities and outcomes for children beyond the walls of my classroom.

“I would encourage anyone who works with children and young people to apply for the next cohort of Parliament Ambassador Teachers.”