PUPILS in Coalpit Heath swapped their textbooks for a political discussion with prospective MPs Luke Hall and Steve Webb as part of a project to engage them in the general election.


The Manor CE Primary School, on Roundways, hosted the event on Tuesday, April 14 where the parliamentary candidates for Thornbury and Yate, Conservative Luke Hall and Liberal Democrat Steve Webb talked to the children about politics, elections and voting.


The candidates were given a tour around and school by members of the school council and also took part in a 'Question Time' style event with the children.


Class teacher and deputy headteacher, Louise Lund, said: "The visit was a valuable opportunity for our pupils to learn about democracy in action.


"It brought the meaning of the general election to life and gave the pupils the chance to question what it means to them.


"Much thanks to Steve Webb and Luke Hall for giving us some of their valuable time."


Mr Hall said: "It was great to attend the School Democracy Day at Manor Primary School where we were put to the test by the key stage one and key stage two classes.


"As a local man who was born and went to school in South Gloucestershire, it is a real honour to return to local schools and to stand as the local MP."


Mr Webb said: “I was very pleased to be able to join pupils at the Manor School to explain a bit more about the general election and the role of an MP.

"It was good to be shown around by some very bright pupils from the school council who obviously took pride in their school, and the children listened very patiently while we explained how parliament works.


"We also had to answer some very searching questions and it was very encouraging that the children were so interested and engaged. Even those who didn’t get time to ask their questions in the assembly came up afterwards to find out the answers.


"I hope they will be much more informed citizens as a result."