Member of Parliament for Epping Forest, Dr Neil Hudson, recently visited Chigwell School, where he met with students and staff. Dr Hudson was given a tour of the school’s impressive facilities before taking part in a wide‑ranging Q&A session with Sixth Form pupils.
Dr Hudson praised the school’s strong sense of community and its commitment to providing pupils with opportunities to engage in public life. He was particularly encouraged that six Chigwell students were standing in the upcoming Epping Forest Youth Council elections, demonstrating the school’s encouragement of civic participation.
The discussion with pupils covered a broad range of issues, reflecting the concerns and priorities of young people across the constituency. Pupils shared their perspectives on environmental challenges and also highlighted the importance of disability awareness and inclusion. Other issues discussed included mobile phones, social media, and transport.
Epping Forest MP Dr Hudson said:
“It was a real pleasure to spend time with the students and staff at Chigwell School. The young folk were articulate, thoughtful and deeply engaged with the world around them.
“I was especially encouraged that six students were standing in the Epping Forest Youth Council elections. It was clear that these young folk are passionate about shaping the future of their communities.”
Mr Thomas Burnside, Deputy Head at Chigwell, said:
“Dr Hudson spent time with our candidates for the upcoming Epping Forest Youth Council elections, offering them a fascinating first‑hand insight into the realities of political life.
"Our pupils found his reflections hugely inspiring, and the opportunity to hear directly about his journey gave them a deeper sense of what meaningful political engagement can look like.”
Mr Simon Coppell, Deputy Head at Chigwell, said:
“Dr Hudson took part in a fast-moving Sixth Form discussion group with some of our students who of course will be able to vote in the next general election. They shared views about mobile phone use in schools, legislation to limit social media use by younger children, extending the range of educational courses covered by student finance, and many other topics.”
