This week’s primary school assembly and classroom discussions centre around the important topic of democracy and the upcoming UK general election. In the News: The UK General Election Announcement On 23rd May 2024, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced a general election will take place on 4th July. The announcement was made during a press conference outside 10 Downing Street. On 30th May, Parliament was dissolved, meaning all MPs return to being members of the public. Over the coming weeks, many previous MPs will campaign to be re-elected. The general election process allows adults over 18 to vote for who they want to represent them in parliament, potentially leading to a new government party and leader this summer. Timeline for the 2024 General Election The general election follows a specific timeline: 23rd May: Election announced. 30th May: Parliament dissolved. 4th July: Polling day – adults can visit polling stations from 7am to 10pm to vote. 5th July: Election results are expected to be announced. 9th July: Newly elected MPs meet for the first time. 17th July: The State Opening of Parliament, when the King announces the government's intentions. How Does a General Election Work? The UK is divided into 650 constituencies. Each adult voter in these areas selects one Member of Parliament (MP) to represent them. The political party with the majority of elected MPs wins the general election, and their leader becomes the Prime Minister. Voting takes place using a ballot paper, where voters mark a cross next to their preferred candidate. The Houses of Parliament in Westminster is where these elected MPs meet to discuss and decide on issues that affect the country. What Do Political Leaders Say? Keir Starmer, Labour Party leader, stated, "Politics has to be about service. Britain must be a country that respects your contribution. Everyone – not just those at the top – deserves the chance to get on. These are the ideas I’m fighting for." Rishi Sunak, Conservative Party leader and current Prime Minister, said, "Over the next few weeks, I will fight for every vote. I will earn your trust and I will prove to you that only a Conservative government led by me…can restore pride and confidence in our country and with a clear plan and bold action, will deliver a secure future for you, your family and our United Kingdom." Understanding Democracy Democracy comes from the Greek words “demos” (people) and “kratos” (power or rule), meaning ‘rule of the people’. In a democracy, people elect their government and have a say in how their country is run. A general election is one of the main ways this takes place in the UK, but examples of democracy can be seen in daily school life, such as voting for school council representatives or making choices together as a class or family. For example, students might vote for which film to watch or what treat to have. Sometimes, the majority vote wins, which means not everyone gets their first choice. Learning to accept the outcome is an important part of democracy. British Values and Democracy The UK’s approach to democracy is closely tied to British values, which include: Having a voice and knowing your opinions will be heard. Listening respectfully to others’ views, even when you disagree. Discussing issues calmly and considering different perspectives. Recognising that every vote matters. Reflection and Classroom Discussion Children and adults are encouraged to participate in democratic activities, both in school and at home. Examples include writing letters to school council members or holding class votes. These experiences help young people learn about fairness, respect, and decision-making before having the right to vote at 18. Some reflective questions for assembly or home discussion include: What do you know about general elections and their importance? How do you feel if your choice doesn’t win a vote? What examples of democracy can you find in your daily life? How do you think people might feel if their political party does not win the election? Do you think voting is always a fair way to make decisions? Vocabulary to Explore Campaign: Working together towards a goal, such as being elected. Conservative: The current governing party in the UK. Dissolved: When Parliament is vacated before a general election. Member of Parliament (MP): An elected person who represents a constituency. Party: An organisation of people with shared ideas about government. Press Conference: An event for important announcements and media questions. Taking Part in Democracy at School Democracy isn’t limited to national elections. In schools, students can participate by: Voting for school council representatives. Suggesting ideas and raising issues through letters or discussions. Listening respectfully during group decision-making. Learning about the importance of participation and respecting different opinions. Young people have the right to express their views and should be treated fairly, even if their ideas differ from others. Governments must ensure that children know and can exercise these rights, and leadership changes do not change this responsibility. Classroom Follow-Up Ideas KS2 Activities Research and understand the different parties standing in the general election. Who are their leaders, and what are their core values? Predict which party might win and discuss why. Investigate the meaning of party colours and logos. Hold your own mini election, create a party manifesto, and present your ideas to classmates before voting. Try ‘voting maths’ by looking at how percentages work in class voting scenarios. KS1 Activities Write a letter to your school council representative about a topic important to you. Talk about voting experiences at home or in class and how you feel about the results. Explore how it feels to take part in group decisions. Links and Resources Useful news: BBC News – UK Politics Prime Minister's announcement: Watch on YouTube Virtual Picture News: Join the discussion Youth and children are encouraged to keep sharing their views and participate actively in decision-making processes at home, in school, and beyond. Democracy is about both listening to others and having your own voice heard. Explore the latest Picture News resources here: https://picture-news.co.uk/free-sample Join our latest discussion here: https://picture-news.co.uk/discuss Explore our recent events and training here: https://picture-news.co.uk/training
