At Heston Community School, we are committed to fostering an environment where students can develop critical thinking skills and engage with real-world issues. Recently, our Year 10 and Year 12 students participated in a mock local election, an event designed to simulate the democratic process and encourage informed decision-making.

The mock elections were a hands-on opportunity for students to delve into the complexities of local governance and electoral processes. By limiting their choices to four candidates representing the four main political parties, we were able to provide a focused framework for students to analyse and compare different political ideologies and policies.

Prior to the election day, students were given time to study the manifestos of the four Sixth Form students who stood as candidates for the Labour, Conservative, Liberal Democrats, and Green parties. Each manifesto outlined key policies on issues such as education, healthcare, the environment, and economic development. Classroom discussions and debates were held, enabling students to ask questions, voice their opinions, and critically evaluate the feasibility and impact of each candidate's proposals. Candidates also delivered campaign speeches in assemblies to promote their parties.

On the day of the mock elections, our Sixth Form Centre was transformed into a polling station. Students experienced the complete electoral process, from registering to vote, to casting their ballots in privacy. This practical exercise not only familiarised them with the logistics of voting but also emphasised the importance of participating in democratic processes.

The mock local elections at Heston Community School were more than just a learning exercise; they were an empowering experience that highlighted the importance of informed and active citizenship. By engaging with the manifestos and participating in the voting process, our students gained valuable insights into the responsibilities of voters and the impact of their choices on the community.

We believe that such initiatives are crucial in preparing our students to be thoughtful, informed, and engaged citizens. The success of this event has inspired us to continue incorporating similar experiential learning opportunities into our curriculum, ensuring that our students are well-equipped to navigate and contribute to the democratic society.

At Heston Community School, we are proud to provide our students with the skills and knowledge they need to make a positive impact on the world. We look forward to seeing how these future voters will shape the community and beyond.