Netherton pupils meet Speaker of the House of Commons

Twenty-five pupils from The Link Academy in Netherton visited the Houses of Parliament, where they had the opportunity to question the Speaker of the House of Commons.

The pupils travelled to Westminster on Thursday, October 22, to learn more about British democracy and explore some of Parliament’s historic buildings.

During a guided tour, they visited areas associated with the State Opening of Parliament and the House of Commons Chamber, where MPs debate national issues.

The highlight was a private audience with Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle and Dudley MP Cat Eccles, during which the pupils asked questions about parliamentary traditions, democracy and the Speaker’s role.

Amman Ahmed, student parliament lead at The Link Academy, organised the visit after becoming a UK Parliament Teacher Ambassador over the summer.

He said: “It is one thing to teach democracy in a classroom, but another for young people from Netherton to walk through Parliament and question the Speaker himself.

“Our Student Parliament is about empowering learners, developing future leaders and showing them that their voices truly matter.”

Kate Brown, behaviour manager at the academy, said the pupils were the first in the school’s history to meet the Speaker of the House of Commons.

She said: “I am incredibly proud to work alongside young people who demonstrate such ambition, curiosity and zest for life.”

The visit follows the academy’s Ofsted inspection in May 2026, when inspectors recognised the strong standard of personal development at the school.

The report praised the range of trips organised by school leaders to enrich the curriculum and give pupils opportunities they might not otherwise experience.

Through its Student Parliament, The Link Academy aims to encourage pupil voice, leadership and active citizenship, giving learners opportunities to influence their school and wider community.