The MP for Scunthorpe was full of praise and advice for students at a local school as he attended the declaration of Year 8’s Presidential election as part of UK Parliament Week.
Sir Nic Dakin visited The St Lawrence Academy on Doncaster Road for a year group assembly in which 12 candidates heard their fate. During the week, each candidate had delivered a two-minute speech to tutor groups and taken questions.
Organised by Head of Year 8 Andy Murray and Emerald House Leader Jo Holleworth, pupils were invited to cast their vote and place it in a ballot box borrowed from North Lincolnshire Council.
Returning Officer Darren Darcy – also Curriculum Progress Leader for Humanities – formally read out the results at the year group assembly, with Aukse Skarbaliute declared President and Khizr Muhammad and Niall Holleworth Vice Presidents.
Speaking at the assembly, Nic said: “The enthusiasm and energy of all the children has been illuminating. This school has clearly done a professional job running a proper election.
(Image: St Lawrence Academy)
“What I would say to the unsuccessful candidates is that many MPs did not win at the first time of asking.”
In an impressive acceptance speech, Aukse said she was “incredibly honoured and humbled” to have topped the ballot and thanked everybody for their support.
“Being chosen as President is a huge responsibility and I know I have lots to learn,” she said.
“But I promise to do my best every day to make our school a place where we all feel valued, heard and inspired. I am here to work with you, not just for you. Let’s work together to make this year unforgettable.”
Mr McCluskie thanked the candidates, Sir Nic for his time and staff for organising the ballet.
“All were quality candidates and the number who came forward is a terrific reflection on themselves, the year group and the academy,” he said.
“This has been a big deal for them, including the debates in form time as to who should be President. They have all taken it really seriously and shown they have the right attitude to work with me to improve the school.
“I know those not elected will be disappointed but I would encourage them to try again. It may be their turn next time.”
After the results were declared, the opportunity was taken to hear from Sir Nic about his role and question him about it.
He encouraged students to stand up to ask questions, as in the House of Commons, rather than putting up their hands, an action called ‘bobbing’.
Sir Nic spent time with the candidates after the assembly and took further questions.
He told them his priorities as the town’s MP were the steelworks, health services and how the place looked.
Asked what was the one thing he would change about Scunthorpe, Sir Nic said: “People’s confidence in the area. Often people are too quick to talk the area down. If we all talked it up, the area would get stronger and better.”
He also had a final message for the 12 candidates.
“You have all done really well. Learn from it and do put yourselves forward again. Young people like you are what will make Scunthorpe and The St Lawrence Academy even better.”
The winning candidates and other members of the student council will be given the opportunity to travel to London and tour the Houses of Parliament next March, catching up with Sir Nic.
Original artice: https://www.grimsbytelegraph.co.uk/all-about/scunthorpe
