Mock Election
Pupils get chance to have say in a mock election
Oct 3 2009 by Tom Mullen, Evening Chronicle
Bridgewater Primary School in Newcastle’s West End held the event to teach youngsters all about how our governments are chosen.
Rosettes, ballot boxes and election manifestoes all played their part as the pupils cast their votes.
And the day, at the school in Delaval Road, Scotswood, was even granted the use of an official polling booth and ballot box from Newcastle Civic Centre.
The voting saw candidates from all classes, with pupils as young as five taking part in the fun.
It was the culmination of many days of preparations for the youngsters, who drew up posters to canvass their fellow pupils’ vote.
Headteacher Sam Robson said: “We tried to make everything we did as real as possible. They all voted for each other and I’ve just counted up the votes, so I’m sure there will be some fun when the winners are announced in assembly.”
But there was more to the election day than educational fun.
Two successful candidates will be selected from each class to represent their peers.
The children also have regular visits from local councillors and are hoping to arrange a trip to the Houses of Parliament in London soon.
