St Matthew’s Catholic Primary School pupils visit Parliament

Pupils from St Matthew’s Catholic Primary School, Liverpool, recently had the privilege of visiting the Houses of Parliament in Westminster.

The visit means that the pupils are now part of the estimated 1% of the UK population who have entered the iconic and historically significant buildings.

The trip, which was part of the Parliament’s acclaimed education and engagement programme, offered the children a rare and inspiring opportunity to explore the heart of British democracy. It included a range of immersive experiences designed to deepen their understanding of how the country is governed.

During their visit, pupils were given a guided tour of the Palace of Westminster, where they walked the same corridors as past and present prime ministers, government ministers, and members of both Houses. They also had the unforgettable experience of sitting in the House of Commons, where MPs debate and vote on laws that affect the entire country. This was in addition to observing a live debate in the House of Lords and gaining insight into how legislation is reviewed and refined.

Another key highlight was a hands-on workshop focused on the central functions of Parliament and the three elements that make it up: the House of Commons, House of Lords, and the Monarch.

Delivered by the Parliament’s education team, the workshop encouraged pupils to think critically about democracy, leadership, and the importance of having a voice in society. Using roleplay and discussions, they also explored how MPs are elected, how debates are structured, and how laws are made and challenged.

Mr James Garcia, teacher at St Matthew’s Catholic Primary School, said: “This was a truly enriching experience for our children. To stand inside the very rooms where decisions that shape our country are made is something they’ll never forget. The visit has sparked meaningful conversations about justice, leadership, and the importance of civic participation. We are proud to provide experiences like this that help bring learning to life.”

The visit was especially valuable in supporting the school’s curriculum in citizenship, history, and British values. St Matthew’s actively promotes educational experiences that empower pupils to understand the world around them and their potential role in shaping the future.