Nearly 80 students from The Archbishop’s School, Canterbury Academy, The Langton, Spires Academy and Sandwich Technology School came together to discuss the topics that mattered to them ahead of the general election

The Workshops took place ahead of a general election hustings that was hosted by the University, during which the students discussed topics covering cost of living, housing, future jobs, the NHS and environmental concerns. They then decided which two topics they wanted to pose as questions to the candidates during the election hustings. Students chose to ask questions to the candidates on their policies to support immigrants and refugees living in Canterbury and support for younger people during the cost of living crisis.

Dr Susan Kenyon is a Principal Lecturer in Politics in the School of Law, Policing and Social Sciences, who helped to co-ordinate the participation of the schools and colleges in the pre-hustings workshop. She said: “As a University, and especially as academics in the Politics and International Relations team, we are committed to empowering the student voice. We want our students and young people to be heard and valued, to have the confidence to become active citizens in their communities and in the political process. The event we held with local students supports our commitment to providing enriching experiences to our community as well as to promote the ability of different groups to come together to hear different voices and opinions in a respectful way.

“We were delighted that so many students were able to attend, and we thank their schools for their support too. Their students’ energy and enthusiasm whilst taking part in the workshops and during the hustings was wonderful to see. The students were able to quickly identify something that affects them and their community, showing critical thinking and awareness of their world. They communicated impeccably, showing confidence and determination to be heard, whilst also listening carefully and showing respect for different perspectives demonstrating an understanding of the need to listen to others, even if you don't agree with them. We hope they continue to engage with politics and feel confident to share their voice on topics that mean so much to their generation.”