Order in the house as MP visits Beacon School

​Westminster came to Reigate last week as pupils at The Beacon School welcomed local MP Crispin Blunt for a question and answer session for the school’s senior pupils.

​The visit was set up following Beacon head boy Harry Mahoney-Roberts’ week of work experience with Mr Blunt at the House of Commons, as a result of which he agreed to pay a visit and speak to an audience of students from Years 10, 11 and 12.

Mr Blunt, 56, has been the local MP since 1997 and served in the Army before entering Westminster, where he has held posts including being Parliamentary undersecretary with responsibility for Youth Justice in the Ministry of Justice.

“Having a visitor like this was a really interesting opportunity for the pupils and they certainly made the most of it,” said Beacon Director of Sixth Form Naomi Albrecht.

“He spoke to them about his time in the military as well as Parliament, and explained to them why he thinks it is so important for young people to engage in the political process, before a question and answer session where they asked him about issues such as Brexit, Donald Trump, the voting age and the ethics of going to war.”

The visit was another highlight of a busy term for the Beacon School, which has recently become a member of the GLF Schools multi-academy trust. Others have included two London theatre trips and a visit and lecture by musician Professor John Irving.

“Cultural activities like the trips we’ve offered and the visiting speakers we’ve had add so much to the students’ education and really broaden their horizons,” added Ms Albrecht. 

“Particularly in such a busy political time, we’re enormously appreciative to Mr Blunt for taking the time to come to the school. I’m sure he’s inspired some budding politicians of the future.”