Students and staff from University of Staffordshire recently visited the Houes of Parliament.
The key aim of the trip was for students to understand how our democracy works because students were studying how social policy is made and law making forms a key part of that process.
The trip was arranged for students from a range of courses, including, Health and Social Care, Social Work Apprenticeship, Biomedical science and Law
What was involved in the trip?
The visit started with a tour including the Lords and the Speaker's procession. After this, the group watched 45 minutes of questions to the Chanellor and senior minisiters, which included discussing PPE contacts, disability legislation and other pressing issues of the day.
They then met Gareth Snell in Westminster Hall, who was very attentive. The group asked him questions about pay in the social care sector, financing of Higher Education and the idea of upskilling the care workforce and professionalising the sector.
One of our academics presented a copy of the Hardship Times and spoke passionately about people being able to live with dignity.
Students then got to spend some time in London, with some seeing members of the Royal Family! For some students, this was their first trip to our capital city.
What did our students think of the experience?
"Absolutely fantastic trip. A great way to fully understand how politics work as well as looking at the history behind it. Seeing everything up close makes you realise how special a place it is. Getting a real time view of live parliament with MPs debating also makes you see how passionate they are and how they try to fight for their areas."
Sarah Hallam BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care
"I absolutely loved the trip and this fantastic opportunity to visit the Houses of Parliament, thank you for your hospitality and definitely would suggest to do this trip in future years to come - it has definitely sparked a further interest within scientific politics."
Harriet Sheridan BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science
It was such a great experience! I really enjoyed the tour and meeting the MP for Stoke -on-Trent. It’s not every day you get the chance to visit such an iconic place and learn about how things work in UK politics.
As an international student, this trip meant a lot to me. Visiting Parliament isn’t something I would have been able to do on my own, so having this opportunity was incredible. It gave me a better understanding of the country and its democracy, which is so valuable while I’m studying here.
The free time in London was also a highlight—it gave me the chance to explore and take in the city. I think trips like this are so important for students because they bring what we’re learning to life and create experiences we’ll always remember.
Wickrama Hewage Sam Mario Gunawardena, Law
"The trip was educational and improved my views and knowledge about parliament. Getting the tour around parliament, entering the chambers, and receiving information was incredible, and I’ve learned so much.
Having the opportunity to observe live questions from the public gallery was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Having the opportunity to talk to the local MPs and hear their views and day-to-day activities was very informative. As a student who wants to work for the HM Government, this has been a real insight, and it has given me more of a reason to pursue my career choice."
Hayden Webster, BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care