Parliamentarians reach out

Four members of parliament were impressed by the “robust” political engagement shown by Marlborough Girls’ College and Bohally Intermediate students last week.

The Parliament Outreach programme, which visited the schools on Wednesday, bring Parliament to schools and communities by allowing students into parliamentary roles and law-making process through discussions, mock debate, and showing how their voices can make a difference.  

Students were joined by National’s Stuart Smith (Kaikōura), former MGC student Dr Vanessa Weenink (Banks Peninsula), Labour’s Glen Bennett (Chief Whip, List), and Damien O’Connor (List) on Wednesday, who each shared valuable insights into their roles and support, accompanied by minor heckling during debates.

Vanessa described the opportunity to return to her former schools as an “inspiring visit, and the highlight of the week”.

“I was very impressed with the arguments that all the students put forward … it was a lot of fun for everyone, and the MPs had lots of good questions from the students as well.

“I was swamped with memories - the school layouts haven’t changed much, and It was nice to see a couple of my old classmates who are teachers at the schools as well.”

Kaikōura MP Stuart Smith said the Marlborough Girls College students impressed him with their enthusiasm and engagement during the mock parliamentary debate, while Bohally students were curious and willing to learn more about the parliamentary process.

“MGC’s insightful arguments and the respectful manner in which they conducted themselves demonstrated a great understanding of parliamentary procedures.

“It was clear that they had put in a lot of effort to prepare for the debate and were quick to raise counter points.

“Bohally’s students were eager to participate and ask questions - their robust debating style was pleasantly surprising and good to see that they managed to it in respectful manner.

“It was heartening to see the future generation so involved and interested in our democratic processes, and I look forward to seeing how these young minds continue to develop their skills and knowledge in the years to come.”

Labour chief whip Glen Bennett agreed across party lines, saying “Blenheim is home to some very talented young people which was on full display during our visit.

“Meeting with students and hearing their debates on the issues that matter to them was both inspiring and thought provoking, and I was blown away by their passion and the depth of their arguments.

“Bringing Parliament into schools is such a rewarding experience and seeing how informed and engaged these students are gives me real confidence that the future of Marlborough and New Zealand is in good hands”.

Labour list MP Damien O’Connor commented that the Marlborough visit was “an honour to interact with such enthusiastic students and hopefully they now better understand the people and process that make up our parliament and democracy”.

“Our debates were incredibly well-researched, engaging, and at times very animated, showcasing the enthusiasm and critical thinking of our lively and engaged students around the topic Voting in New Zealand should be compulsory”, commented MGC Social Science curriculum leader and organiser Libby Le Compte.

“It was one of the most interesting and engaging activities we have hosted, and we hope to have the chance to host again in the future.”