Bryanston’s Head of Politics awarded Gold Teacher Ambassador for UK Parliament

As a result of the School’s progressive and engaging approach to the subject, there has been a significant increase in the number of sixth formers studying politics at Bryanston. Over 50 pupils have registered on the politics course for the 2020-21 academic year and now both Will and the School itself have been presented with the highest level of award as a Teacher Ambassador for the UK Parliament.

Will Bridges commented: “There is no doubt that Brexit and now the Covid-19 pandemic has prompted the younger generation to think much more about democracy, voting and the importance of political debate. As an ambassador, we will of course continue to build on the increased interest in the subject with our own pupils and will take steps to ensure that every year group has some form of engagement with politics.

“Once restrictions have eased, we will also now be visiting primary and prep schools across Dorset to engage with teaching staff and pupils of all ages and explain the work and respective roles of the House of Commons and House of Lords. I’m really looking forward to visiting primary and prep schools across the region to help enlighten and increase the connection of young people with the role and workings of Parliament. Indeed, I will be more than happy to visit any school that would be interested in a talk to help develop pupils’ understanding of Parliament and democracy – please contact me at wjb@bryanston.co.uk.” 

Securing the Gold Award from the Teachers’ Institute was the culmination of a year of concerted activities completed by Will Bridges and colleagues. These included a three-day training programme at the Houses of Parliament that provided prospective teacher ambassadors with the opportunity to question the House of Commons Speaker and the Lord Speaker and to hear from parliamentarians of all parties about their work and priorities.