Deputation blog

Deputation blog - written with the school councillors who addressed the Mayor

On the 15th March 2023, eight school councillors bravely ventured to the Civic Centre to express their views for the need to instate a safer crossing on Manor Farm Road. Deputation is the opportunity for local residents to raise concerns within a seven minute time frame. 

Nerves and excitement was displayed by the three speakers upon arrival as they took in the mahogany chairs and stone sculptures. The three children, who were addressing the mayor, waited outside for half an hour to be invited in to speak the Lord Mayor, Sheriff and Southampton councillors. Supporting school councillors watched eagerly from the viewing area. The three children spoke with passion and confidence which resulted in a standing ovation.The Lord Mayor congratulated the children on their bravery and suggested that they are future politicians in the making.

"At first, we were very nervous because of the high expectations around the deputation, but when we started speaking, we felt very brave and reassured by the Lord Mayor and councillors that it was fine to make mistakes.  When we were waiting, lots of people greeted us to say hello and the atmosphere inside was positive. We remembered to speak clearly to make the most of the opportunity.  At the end, there was a standing ovation, which made us feel surprised because we didn't know what to expect.  After the deputation had finished, we felt happy and proud to stand up for our school and we received lots of compliments from the Lord Mayor and the councillors, as well as from everyone back at school who had watched it on the live stream."  Aislynn, Sophie and Oli.

We are incredibly proud of all the children involved with ensuring our deputation was a success and now look forward to continuing our project to instate a safer crossing over this next half term!