St Bartholomew’s School hosts its own Question Time at its 2022 political hustings

St Bartholomew’s School sixth form pupils created their own version of Question Time when hosting their 2022 political hustings recently.

The event saw four political party representatives answering questions from students on a range of important topics that had local, national, and global implications.

Those that took part were councillors Ross Mackinnon (Con, Bradfield), Dave Marsh (Green, Newbury Wash Common) and Lee Dillon (Lib Dem, Thatcham North East) and Dr Liz Bell (Labour).

Mr Marsh said: “Who says politics is boring? The St Bart’s sixth-formers showed they are well informed and very engaged in the big issues of the day.

“It was a pleasure and privilege to take part. The future is in good hands!”

The party representatives answered a range of pre-selected questions that were submitted by pupils prior to the event.

Topics discussed included the conflict in Ukraine, the energy crisis and the partygate scandal, as well as more local issues such as council funding for local resources used by younger people.

Deputy head student Connor Beckett, who chaired the event on February 17, said: “It was a great opportunity for me to chair the hustings.

“I want to take politics further after sixth form, so events like this give me the experience in engaging with different viewpoints and a wide range of issues that other students feel strongly about.”

Dr Bell said: “It was a real pleasure to answer the thoughtful questions of the St Bart's students, and to engage in a debate from diverse political viewpoints.

“I very much hope we spoke to, and inspired some future politicians.”