MP Tours Primary School, Inspires Pupils with Campaign Talk

An MP visited a primary school to talk to pupils about a children's rights campaign.

On May 2, Southampton Itchen MP Darren Paffey went to Harefield Primary School to discuss with students the campaign that their institution is backing.

Harefield Primary is a UNICEF Silver Rights Respecting School, and the pupils are currently taking part in Outright – a nationwide children’s rights campaign organised by UNICEF UK.

It is one of hundreds of schools and organisations across the country that are highlighting the voices of children and young people and encouraging decision-makers to listen.

Darren Paffey visits Harefield pupils backing children’s rights cause (Image: Harefield Primary) During the MP’s visit, the school’s Pupil Voice group, which is made up of two pupils per year group aged six to 11, were able to discuss his job as an MP as well as how they are playing an active role in advocating for children’s rights.

Teacher Helen Heal stated: "At the core of our school lies children's rights, and we genuinely consider their opinions."

"The children learn about rights, through an ethos of rights and are learning how they can get involved in local and global issues."

The school has organized numerous "rights days" focused on teaching students about democracy, dignity, equity, equality, and global citizenship.

Pupils from Harefield Primary discuss food poverty concerns with MP (Image: Harefield Primary) Through the Outright campaign, the children have been learning about food poverty and what we can do about it.

They have visited local food banks and were able to share this action and learning with MP Darren Paffey.

MP Darren Paffey said: "It was such a pleasure to meet such bright and enthusiastic young campaigners."