“There is nothing concrete to say this is what I am doing and my voice is heard.”

Pupils at two of Newbury’s schools say more information about local politics is needed to encourage the next generation to get involved.

Sixth formers at St Bartholomew’s and Trinity schools said they wanted more representation of young people’s views in West Berkshire Council.

They agree they do not have a voice, and find the main way they get involved is through campaigning or activism.

These pupils are at St Bartholomew’s.

Ed Morris, 16, said: “I think women in politics is important. You can’t ignore the fact that men and women are different, and that means a different point of view on things. If you ignore certain voices then mistakes are made as people are overlooked.”

READ MORE: Female councillors on bad behaviour of male colleagues

Sarah Garland, 16, said she wasn't interested in politics, but believed a balance of viewpoints was needed.

“It is wrong if a council is all white male and 60 plus," she said. "They will want the same thing, and we need more women and people from different backgrounds.”

Masie Dixon, 16, agreed. “It is a good thing they encourage more women to step forward but there is not any encouragement to do this," she added. "Even with young people, there is a big difference in what people want, between someone who is ten years older.

"I think more education is needed about different careers in politics too. Making a difference is really important.

"Not everyone can be an MP so making a difference on a local level is a good thing. In your local area you know what is going on. How many of us actually know how to get into the local councils? We need to be shown this, and most people just don’t know.”

Emily Atherton, 16, said: “I think if you are in power their minds treat issues they see for themselves, so if they are 60 plus male they will be focussed on issues that are important to them.

"We need different people to explain different perspectives.

“Education is really important and lacking at the moment. We do not get taught the steps to getting to be a prime minister. Our generation has the drive for change, but we don’t really know how to get involved.

“There is nothing concrete to say this is what I am doing and it matters, and my voice is heard.”

Trinity School student Ellie Kerslake added: “I wouldn’t join politics because I don’t think my voice is impactful. I don’t think we have a voice. It is a social class issue too.

“I think sometimes men can overlook how difficult it is for women to take part in an outnumbered environment and to feel confident sharing their views.”

Freya Westlake, also a student at Trinity, added: “Party politics doesn’t really come in to play when you are dealing with very local things. It should be about who can speak for the people, not necessarily what party they are from.

“People need to know what councils cover and what they are able to change so education of this needs to improve.

“I feel like some men want to just be in power, so they would be more likely to follow a career in local politics. That’s not the main thing women think about.”