Worksop: First meeting of junior council is a big success

Primary pupils aged seven to 11 from 16 schools throughout the town took part in the inaugural event, which saw them learn skills in how to politely debate, alongside seeing what happens at a full Bassetlaw Council meeting.

A pair of children from each school attended the event after being elected by their classmates to be their representatives.

They were then presented with a certificate, badge and pen for joining the new junior council, which will give them opportunity to have their say on local issues and learn more about democratic participation.

“I am delighted to say that the children were a credit to our schools and the town,” said Phil Abbott, head of Worksop Priory School, whose idea the junior council was, said:

“We discussed what it would mean being a junior councillor and the responsibilities that come with it.

“After a busy session, we all went our separate ways with a buzz.

“To hear the leader of council speak at the full district council meeting about his support for the junior council was heartening.”

The junior council is just one branch of the newly re-launched participation groups for young people in Worksop, along with the Bassetlaw Youth Council for teenagers.

Future aims for the junior council involve helping with issues such as the regeneration of Worksop’s shopping facilities, along with possibilities for asking questions and tabling motions at full council meetings.

“It was great to see so many enthusiastic young people attend full council,” commented Coun Simon Greaves, leader of Bassetlaw Council.

“The junior council is a great opportunity for school children throughout Worksop to learn about the democratic process and have their voice heard.”

The next junior council meeting will be on November 12.

For more information contact [email protected] 

Alternatively go to the Bassetlaw Youth Council Facebook page www.facebook.com/Bassetlawyouthcouncil