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Junior Forum visits Senedd

Pupils from Griffithstown, New Inn and Penygarn primary schools at the Senedd

Pupils from Griffithstown, New Inn and Penygarn primary schools have visited the Senedd as part of the Torfaen Junior Forum.

The pupils were invited by Matthew Jones MS after he was invited to talk to the forum earlier this year.

During the visit, the group met Matthew and his fellow MS' Lynne Neagle and Stephen John Senior, who spoke with the pupils about their work and answered questions about issues that matter to young people.

The pupils also toured the Senedd building in Cardiff Bay, learned about its sustainable design and took part in educational activities, including a mock debate in the Senedd Chamber.

Year 6 pupil Isla said: “I was really interested to hear how the Senedd building was so eco-friendly.”

Ava, who is also in Year 6, said: “I enjoyed taking turns to speak in the chamber and pressing the buttons to make the microphones work.”

Year 5 pupil Evelyn added: “My favourite part was joining in a pretend debate and then voting at the end.”

Cerian Pugh, Deputy Headteacher at Griffithstown Primary School, said: “What an inspiring and informative experience our pupils had.

"They had the wonderful opportunity to meet Welsh Ministers and discover how laws are made in Wales.

"It was great to see the pupils so interested, asking thoughtful questions and finding out more about how decisions are made that affect everyday lives.”

Philip Wilson, Torfaen Council’s Children and Young People’s Engagement & Participation Officer, said: “The visit provided a fantastic opportunity for our Junior Forum members to learn about democracy in action and to see how their voices can help shape decisions.

"Experiences like this encourage young people to take an active interest in their communities and understand the importance of participation from an early age.”

The Torfaen Junior Forum brings together pupils from primary schools across the borough to discuss issues that affect children and young people, develop their confidence and leadership skills, and influence decisions within their schools and local communities."

The junior forum group will meet after Easter when the pupils will decide on their next joint project.