Wychbold First & Nursery School welcomed local MP Chris Bloore as part of this year’s Parliament Week celebrations. The visit provided an opportunity for pupils to engage directly with their Member of Parliament, ask thought-provoking questions, and showcase their school.

During a lively Q&A session, pupils asked Chris about his role as an MP, his challenges, and his plans for improving the local community. Topics ranged from reducing litter and encouraging sustainable travel to the importance of physical education and providing resources for young people. When asked about his favourite part of the job, Chris shared, "Visiting schools like this and speaking with young people is the best part. You’re interested and excited about everything we can do, and you want to make the world a better place.” Chris said that the children inspire him to work harder for our community."

When asked if he had always been interested in politics, Chris admitted that he was obsessed with football at their age and even played in the FA Cup. However, as he grew older, he became frustrated with social issues like underfunded hospitals and housing shortages. A friend eventually told him to stop complaining and take action.

Wychbold pupils demonstrated their commitment to sustainability by discussing ways to look after the environment, such as walking to school instead of driving. Chris emphasised the importance of collective action, noting, "Small steps, like walking to school, can make a big difference for the environment and our health."

After the Q&A, Chris enjoyed a tour of the school, where he learned about Wychbold's unique learning environment.

As a token of appreciation, the pupils presented Chris with a school council badge, which he promised to wear in the House of Commons. The visit concluded with a discussion on the possibility of arranging a future school trip to Parliament, an idea that sparked excitement amongst the pupils.

Reflecting on Chris’s visit Rebecca Wilks, Headteacher said: Schools have a vital role in supporting children to develop an understanding and interest in politics and their community. Children often feel that politics is just something that happens "in London" and therefore showing them how their local area feeds into wider issues is important which is why having our local MP visit is important. Our children take real pride in their local area through initiatives such as local litter picks, visitors from our community, links with the Royal British Legion and others.