Could Stafford MP's summer school find the cabinet ministers of the future?
Tomorrow's cabinet ministers - or youngsters just interested in how the system works - are invited to apply for a political summer school being organised by a West Midland MP.
Leigh Ingham, MP for Stafford, is inviting applications from youngsters aged 15-18 to apply for the week-long event, where teenagers will meet ministers, MPs and peers as well as organising their own community campaigns.
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It follows on from the success of a similar event last year, where the youngsters were invited to Downing Street to meet Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves.
The free programme runs from July 6 to 10 in Stafford, and includes a day trip to Parliament.
Throughout the week, they will work in teams to design their own social action campaigns on issues affecting their community, while building skills in public speaking, campaigning, leadership, and communication.
Miss Ingham said: “As a former youth worker, I have seen what young people can achieve when given the right opportunities.
"Last year’s summer school only reinforced that view, I was so proud of the 18 incredible students who took part.
“If you are in year 11, 12 or 13, care about your community and want to build the skills to create change, I would love you to apply for the 2026 summer school.”
Harriet Austin, who took part in last year's event, said: “The politics summer school was such an incredible experience, one of the best weeks of my life.
"Getting to meet massively inspirational people like Rachel Reeves, Marvin Rees, and Simon Lightwood, it was an exciting dive into the world of politics and all in all, was immensely fun. I couldn't recommend it enough.”
Applications are open until April 19, and young people can apply on the website bit.ly/politicssummerschool2026.
