Cornwall Pupils Visit Parliament and West End on London Trip

Pupils from Egloskerry Primary School and Altarnun Primary School travelled to London for a residential visit that combined politics with culture, including a guided tour of the Houses of Parliament with their local MP.

The trip, organised as part of the schools’ programme to broaden experiences beyond the classroom, saw students from the Athena Learning Trust explore the capital and learn more about how decisions made in Westminster affect their communities back in Cornwall.

Inside Parliament with Ben Maguire

During their visit to the Houses of Parliament, pupils met their local MP, Ben Maguire, and took part in a question and answer session.

They discussed topics including sewage in Cornwall, the importance of clean water, and issues around food security and farming. These conversations built on letters the pupils had previously sent.

There was also time for a lighter moment, with students asking Ben whether he is related to Manchester United footballer Harry Maguire.

The visit gave pupils a chance to see democracy in action and better understand how national decisions connect to local life.

From Westminster to the West End

Away from Parliament, the trip included a range of cultural experiences across London.

One of the highlights was a performance of Matilda the Musical in the West End, which pupils described as leaving them “spellbound”.

Students also explored some of London’s most well-known landmarks, learning more about the city’s history and heritage during their stay.

Building Confidence Beyond the Classroom

The visit forms part of the schools’ wider focus on helping pupils develop confidence, curiosity, and a broader understanding of the world, including key topics such as sustainability and the environment.

Lynsey Slater, Executive Principal at Altarnun Primary School and Principal at Egloskerry Primary School, said:

“Our pupils had the time of their lives on this London residential. It was a non-stop adventure, from the excitement of Matilda the Musical to a fascinating behind-the-scenes tour of the Houses of Parliament. They really embraced every opportunity to experience life in the capital and were excellent ambassadors throughout.”