On Thursday, 11th March, years 8, 9, 10 and 11 were fortunate enough to embark on a trip to the historic Houses of Parliament. At 7.15am, we were collected by coach to make our way into London, two hours later we arrived as the traffic was heavy.

Climbing out of the bus, weary from the long journey, I was struck by the imposing surroundings which appeared rather daunting at first. The yellow of the limestone added a vivid brightness to the environment. The security team ushered us into the building where we were introduced to an enthusiastic, young tour guide, by the name of Jasmine. Before we left the central lobby, she explained to us that it was going to be a very busy and important day as the new budget was to be announced and scrutinised.

Parliament looked beautiful in the morning sun

Leaving the main entrance behind us, we were led to a large oak door. We hauled open the door and tiptoed into the Lords chamber, in the House of Lords, silently, and without any further ado began to familiarise ourselves with our surroundings. From that point forth we discussed a number of contentious issues including votes at 16 and hereditary peerages, amongst others.

As I opened the door, a fantastic sensation of admiration came over me, and I was left speechless, mesmerised by the spectacular paintings. In particular, a seventeenth century painting of the disgraced English King, Charles the 1st of Kent, stood out as though he had come back to life and returned in ghost form.

Students enjoying their tour around parliament

We then participated in a scintillating and highly entertaining workshop, which involved the History of the houses and the struggles of the suffragettes. At this point in the proceedings Lucy Fraser the indubitably passionate Tory MP, introduced herself, before responding to a series of questions concerning topics as diverse as the economy, coronavirus and the environment, specifically electric infrastructure and the feasibility of the government's intentions to outlaw Diesel and Petrol vehicles by 2032. This was a welcome opportunity for students to heavily scrutinise her plans and hold her to account on these initiatives.

After we had perused through our surroundings for a sufficient amount of time, we proceeded to head on to the park outside parliament, where we consumed our lunch, with great celerity and haste. At long last the trip concluded, and we hurried unto the coaches, exhausted and fatigued after such an intensive and enjoyable day, merry and joyful in our emotions.

By Noah Year 9/10