Local representatives from major political parties delivered speeches at New College. This has given students the opportunity to put their questions forward to local MPs and leaders, including South Swindon MP Robert Buckland and North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson.
Topics of discussion throughout the event have included jobs and employment, further and higher education, housing and the cost of private renting, as well as the impact of Brexit, youth aspiration in the local area and future plans for the re-development of Swindon.
The event has been arranged as part of the new Tutor Programme at New College, with an ultimate goal of preparing students for life after college. Louise Reddan, one of the Personal Tutors at New College who is leading the event this week commented:
“The aim of our event this week is to prepare our students for the end of college and support with any concerns they may have about life after their studies with us, whether that’s financial, to do with university, healthy living or working.”
The idea of having a politics-themed week came about after gaining feedback from previous students. Many said they felt in the dark when it came to politics, especially on the topics of voting in the General Election and the Brexit Referendum. Having guest speakers in this week and giving the opportunity to ask questions has provided a great introduction to politics for students.
Robert Buckland kicked off the week, discussing student fees, the private renting system and homelessness in the area. Andy Bentley, Sarah Church, Stan Pajak and Mark Dempsey followed on, with Justin Tomlinson ending the week of speeches.
With the event being closely linked to life after college, students have been given a fantastic opportunity to find out more about current political matters, which may have a direct impact on their future and the decisions they decide to make.
