Ormiston Bridge Academy recently had students visit Parliament to take part in a special International Women’s Day event celebrating the role of women in politics and public life.
A group of Year 11 students from the academy attended the International Women’s Day event, organised by the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Women in Parliament, in Westminster. Titled “Inspiring Future Leaders: Connecting Young Women with Women Political Leaders in the UK and Globally,” the day brought together students from across the country to explore careers in politics, leadership and activism.
The event encouraged young women to see politics as a place where their voices and perspectives matter. Students took part in discussions with several parliamentarians and heard first-hand about their experiences in public life.
Among the speakers were Mims Davies MP, Co-Chair of the APPG for Women in Parliament and Shadow Minister for Women; Dawn Butler MP, Co-Chair of the APPG for Women in Parliament and one of the first Black female MPs; and Sarah Dyke MP, Liberal Democrat Rural Affairs Spokesperson and Officer of the APPG for Women in Parliament.
Sophia Martin, Principal of Ormiston Bridge Academy, said: “We were incredibly proud to see our students take part in such an inspiring event at the heart of UK democracy. At Ormiston Bridge Academy, we are committed to helping every young person believe in their potential and feel confident using their voice. Opportunities like this allow our students to see first-hand that leadership and influence are within their reach. We hope the experience inspires them to continue aspiring, asking questions and shaping the world around them.”
Students also had the opportunity to hear from Helen Pankhurst, granddaughter of Emmeline Pankhurst, organiser of the British suffragette movement and founder of the Women’s Social and Political Union, who spoke about the legacy of the women’s rights movement and the ongoing importance of representation and equality.
The visit gave students the chance to ask questions, take part in discussions and gain insight into how women continue to shape politics in the UK and around the world.