OPA Greystone Children Discuss Politics And Mental Health With Ripon Mayor

A primary-academy based in Ripon has battled through the ongoing issues surrounding the coronavirus pandemic to hold a special meeting with the Ripon Mayor, Eamon Parkin, to discuss the importance of positive mental health.

Despite the difficulties brought on by the pandemic, children from Outwood Primary Academy (OPA) Greystone held a virtual meeting with the Mayor on 9th November, prior to the Mayor addressing the academy via a virtual assembly.

The Mayor held virtual discussions with the academy’s School Parliament Deputy Prime Minister, Catherine Graham, and Year 4 and 5 representatives on the School Parliament, William Ross and Seth Bishop.

The discussion, held virtually over video, saw the children quiz the Mayor over the role, his thoughts on the current situation, and the processes and procedures involved in British politics.

Catherine said: “I was really nervous before we started interviewing the Mayor of Ripon because I talk lots when I’m nervous and I didn’t want to talk too much when I asked him questions. But he was really nice and he told us all about how proud he is to have organised all of Ripon’s beautiful Christmas lights.”

As part of the discussion, the Mayor gave a festive answer when asked to outline what project he was most proud of. He said: “Being given the chance to make a difference to Ripon’s Christmas lights, especially this year with the pandemic, by increasing the number of lights and giving Ripon something special.”

The Mayor then addressed an academy-wide assembly, led by the three children he had previously held a discussion with, and outlined the importance of developing and maintaining positive mental health during lockdown times.

Victoria Kirkman, Principal at Outwood Primary Academy Greystone, said:

“I could not be prouder of the links we have in our community; those links forged by our hugely committed School Parliament led by Mrs Went. 

“OPA Greystone really is at the heart of not only it’s local community, but on a much bigger scale supporting communities across the country and overseas. The children and families at OPA Greystone work tirelessly to support, engage and fundraise resulting in huge impact for all concerned.”

The Mayor then addressed an academy-wide assembly, led by the three children he had previously held a discussion with, and outlined the importance of developing and maintaining positive mental health during lockdown times.

The meeting with the Mayor was held to mark the beginning of UK Parliament Week at OPA Greystone. The week saw children across the academy learning about the country’s political institutions and practices, through a variety of activities including debates and learning, to help the children develop a deeper understanding of British Values.

Mrs Jennifer Went, School Parliament Lead at OPA Greystone, said:

“As the School Parliament leader it is my pleasure to arrange opportunities for our children to learn from the professionals in our community.  

“Outwood Primary Academy Greystone has enjoyed a long standing relationship with each of the Mayors of Ripon for many years, supporting their charity appeals and working closely together to broaden the horizons of our students. 

“We send our gratitude to the current Mayor, Mr Eamon Parkin for taking time out of his day to share with us in these unprecedented times."