Question Time

A Level students take part in Question Time

On Thursday 13^th October 2011, a group of avid A level Politics students, got to take part in a fantastic opportunity, being a part of “Ealing Question Time”. Accompanied by teachers, Mr Thomas and Mr Beale, the evening was definitely a night to remember. Taking place at Ealing Town Hall, the political forum was a perfect chance for us to vent our deepest feelings and emotions about local political issues.

The forum gave us a real flavour of what the BBC show “Question Time” was really like. We were given the opportunity to question our local MP Steven Pound, Conservative councillor Phil Taylor, prospective Liberal Democrat candidate for the London Assembly, Mike Cox, and Ealing Police Superintendent Ian Jenkins. Along with this and the aid of the Ealing Youth Parliament, we were able to hone in on our passion for politics.

We got to participate with other schools in the borough, as we sat in the Council Chamber; the atmosphere was awe-inspiring- it was an uncanny resemblance of the House of Commons! As the debate was up and running, we were able to ask questions and express our feelings on the recent riots and the 2012 Olympic Games. We got to query the causes of the riots, the impact upon the image of young people, and how such events could be prevented. For me, a growing aura, of blame towards the young people developed- this event allowed me to defend the young people, and to really express my political emotion. Moreover, we also got to investigate the affect of the Olympics on the young people, how we can get involved and how we can be encouraged. As Politics students, we were really able to enhance our understanding of the subject, as we were able to interact with local political issues and really get involved!

Our evening was sensational- with fiery debates, curious questions, and one controversial local (who had to be taken out), the trip showcased the beauty of Politics; however, the real cherry on top, was the fact, that our school won the political quiz, winning free Thorpe Park tickets! This trip has explained to me why Politics is such a brilliant subject to take. Politics is current, constantly changing, and is something we can all get passionate about- this trip was definitely worthwhile! I was able, along with the rest of my classmates, to put my feelings out there, and show our fellow young people, my views. After participating in the Council Chamber, sitting in the trademark green leather seat, complete with a microphone and donning the proverbial politician’s look, I really began to feel like a proper politician! I really enjoyed this trip, and hope for many more, as its trips like this that leave a lasting impact on a subject. I’d like to thank the Politics Department for this trip, especially Mr Thomas and Mr Beale, for this wonderful opportunity!

Adrian Antony (Government and Politics Student)