On Friday 9th January, De La Salle School welcomed Richard Holden MP for an insightful and engaging visit with their student leadership team.

During the visit, the MP for Basildon and Billericay spoke about his role as a Member of Parliament, shared experiences from his career in politics, and encouraged students to ask questions and express their views. The conversation gave students a unique opportunity to understand the workings of government and the impact their voices can have. The school was delighted to host him and looks forward to welcoming him back later this year.

Students described the visit as both inspiring and empowering, with many of them expressing how the discussion helped them recognise the value of their own voices. One pupil shared that the session made politics feel “real and achievable,” it showed another that “our opinions matter and that young people really can have a voice in shaping the future.”

Others reflected on what they learnt about good leadership: “leadership is about listening as much as speaking,” “[it] isn’t a title — it’s responsibility and service.” Many also said they left the meeting feeling more confident, one student explained that the experience “encouraged [them] to speak up,” and another was reminded that “change starts with confidence and the courage to ask questions,” and inspired them to think about how they can make a difference within their own community.

Are you a school in the diocese engaging your local MP? We’d love to hear how it’s going. Get it touch with Michael: [email protected]