Pupils from a Blackburn high school dabbled in politics last week as they took part in a workshop run by UK Parliament.

Youngsters from Tauheedul Islam Boys’ High School (TIBHS) learned about the role of parliament and democracy from Senior Education and Engagement Officer (North West of England, Yorkshire & Humberside), Rachael Dodgson.

Year eight students were shown videos of MPs speaking in parliament in order to highlight some of the issues that are often raised in debates.

They were also told of the importance of developing oracy skills and the idea that everyone has the ability to make a change if they put their mind to it by voicing and articulating their concerns.

Principal of TIBHS, Majid Ditta, said: "We are keen for our pupils to be articulate and self-aware as speakers, and students recognised how important the role of oracy is, and the impact it can have on their lives.

"The idea that any one of us can make a change through our voice, and not just what we say but how we say it was a powerful one and it really inspired our boys."

Pupils held their own debates on societal issues, such as whether plastic bags should be banned and the pros and cons of limiting young people’s use of social media.

They also learned about the use of respectful titles in parliament, such as ‘the honourable gentleman’ and about the role the Speaker of the House plays.

Mr Ditta added: "We educate our boys to become active members of their local and wider communities and to uphold British values.

"We are privileged to live in one of the oldest democracies in the world and the boys must always remember that many people gave their freedom, or their lives, to allow them to cast a vote when they reach 18."