KINGSWOOD MP Damien Egan visited lower school pupils at King’s Oak Academy.
Mr Egan was given a tour of the school before joining Year 1 and Year 4 pupils for an assembly where he told them about how he became an MP.
As part of UK Parliament Week, another assembly introduced the children to the history of voting rights. They were astonished to learn about the limitations of voting 100 years ago when only wealthy boys could vote. Pupils were inspired by the efforts of the Suffragists and Suffragettes in fighting for broader voting rights.
Throughout the week, they had the opportunity to draft their own manifestos, highlighting their strengths and aspirations.
This initiative culminated in mock elections, with candidates from each class presenting their manifestos.
Teacher Josie Palmer-Turk said: “The week was an enriching experience, sparking excitement about democracy and empowering pupils to make their voices heard.”
SHAPING THEIR FUTURES
YEAR 10 students from King’s Oak Academy visited the STEM (Science, Technology, English, and Maths) skills fair at the Science Museum in London.
Students met professionals from a range of scientific fields, including representatives from employers and universities, and had the chance to try some interactive activities.
One of the event organisers praised King’s Oak Academy students for their exemplary behaviour and engagement, noting how well they represented their school.
Laura Phillips, associate assistant principal, said: “Our students demonstrated curiosity, enthusiasm, and professionalism throughout the STEM skills fair.
“It was fantastic to see them engaging so meaningfully with industry professionals and gaining a deeper understanding of how their studies today can shape their futures.”
BULBS FOR THE BEES
A GROUP of Year 10 students at King’s Oak Academy have planted spring bulbs, contributing to the promotion of biodiversity and the conservation of bee populations.
The activity was organised with Common Connections, a four-year project dedicated to restoring, enhancing, and connecting green spaces along the border of South Gloucestershire and East Bristol for the benefit of wildlife and communities.
Representatives from Common Connections educated students about the critical role of bees as pollinators, vital not only for maintaining natural ecosystems but also for the production of many food crops.
The session emphasised the importance of planting pollinator-friendly species, such as hyacinths, to create green corridors that support wildlife.
Students got to work, moving soil to large planters and carefully planted a variety of spring bulbs.
Their enthusiasm and dedication to the task were highly commended by the organisers.
George Tanner, from the school, said: “This initiative has been a wonderful opportunity for our students to engage with an important environmental project.
“Their care and commitment during the planting activity were inspiring, and they are excited to see the fruits of their labour when the bulbs bloom later this academic year.”