Speaker brings order to the classroom

AS part of the Parliament in Schools program, speaker of the Australian House of Representatives Milton Dick visited grade 5 and 6 students at Bannockburn P-12 College this week.

Mr Dick, also Member for Oxley in Queensland, and Member for Corangamite Libby Coker, spoke to the school’s young students about Australian politics, democracy, the parliament, federation, and how they all operate, and answered questions.

Pupils also had the opportunity to hold props and wear costumes from the parliamentary chamber, and had a go at performing Question Time.

“All students, regardless of their location should have the opportunity to experience a Parliamentary Education Office program,” Mr Dick said.

“One of my biggest priorities is to increase the accessibility of civics education. These are our future leaders, it is so important we empower school students with the knowledge, skills and values so that they can go on to be active and informed citizens.”

Bannockburn P-12 College middle years assistant principal David Simpson said both the children and teachers had fun, and learnt a lot.

“We hope we have inspired some of our students to think of a future career in politics,” he said.

For Ms Coker, delivering grassroots civics education is key.

“We have a fantastic schools program run at Parliament House in Canberra by the PEO, but not all students will get the opportunity to travel,” she said.

“To see our young future leaders show interest in how Parliament works, and play dress ups at the same time, was a great privilege and good fun too.”