They say that Politics touches everything we do. That could not be more true of this week in A Level Politics at Bishop Luffa School.
On Monday 11th March, Year 13 attended the PolEcon conference in London’s Methodist Central Hall along with several thousand A Level politics students. A packed programme of high profile and significant speakers from across the political world each gave a short talk and (very bravely) took questions from the eager budding politicos.
Speakers of particular note included Wes Streeting (LAB), Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg (CON), Sarah Olney (LIB), Lord Dubs who spoke powerfully about the Dubs Amendments to the Rwanda Bill, and Richard Tice (REFORM). Each speaker gave a short account of what mattered to them, and shared their personal reflections on where things are heading, including the Rochdale By-Election, The Middle East and of course election prospects. Students were able to submit questions in advance, ask questions after each speaker and contributed to a survey, ahead of the election this year. In addition, Alastair Campbell and Rory Stewart, of The Rest is Politics podcast took an extended Q&A on a wide range of issues.
Overall a great occasion to draw the A Level course to a close, with enjoyable and thought provoking speakers.
On Wednesday, we were also privileged to receive Ann Coffey, a Labour MP and Whip and then from 2019 Independent MP, for her reflections of a life in politics. As Tony Blair’s PPS and Shadow Health Secretary and Labour whip, Ann’s honest reflections and answers to questions gave some inspiration and food for thought about the reality of political life and leadership. We are very grateful for her refreshing perspective and passion for continued change to make our democracy as effective as possible. We were also joined by Portsmouth Grammar School, with whom we try to share opportunities like this.
If you would like to know more about A Level Politics ask Mr Luff, H1
Mr M Luff, Teacher of Politics, Business & Economics