On Tuesday 17th April, thirteen 6th formers studying A level Law from Abbeyfield School had a really informative and enjoyable day in London, touring Westminster and the House of Parliament.
At Westminster Palace they had a guided tour, which included watching Philip Hammond being questioned by MPs in the House of Commons then spent time walking around the chamber in the House of Lords, including a visit to the Monarchs’ Robing Room. Afterwards, they took part in a ‘making laws’ workshop where students debated and voted on a bill.
Students were incredibly lucky to have a meeting with a young female MP and barrister, Shabana Mahmood. This was very kindly arranged by Julia Lawrence, mother of student Georgia Lawrence in Year 12. Students were able to talk to Shabana about her career; her work as an MP and take part in current discussions in Parliament today about Syria. Shabana Mahmood MP came out of the Commons especially to talk to students.
Later, they sat in on a case in the Supreme Court where the Justices were considering appeals against deportation by fathers of children on the grounds their deportation would be ‘unduly harsh’ on their children. Students then walked back via Buckingham Palace where we saw the changing of the guard.
Teacher Deborah Meade, who organised the trip, said: “This has been a wonderful learning opportunity for Law students to see first-hand how laws are made.”
