Ashton Sixth Form College welcomed political leader Jeremy Corbyn MP and Angela Rayner MP. After spending the morning meeting with members of the College Student Council and embarking on a tour of the college facilities, Jeremy Corbyn delivered an inspiring speech to a range of students including those studying Politics and aiming to progress on to a politically relevant career. The talk was part of his work with the education charity, Speakers for Schools, which helps state schools and colleges access free talks with leading figures of all backgrounds.

Now more than ever young people are paying attention to politics. With the constant display of world political issues covering the news over the past year, the way the country is run remains the topic of conversation for many. Students at Ashton Sixth Form College had the rare opportunity to hear first-hand from a notable member of the political community who has a very strong voice in current government issues. Jeremy Corbyn MP was elected Leader of the Labour Party in 2015 and is the Leader of the Opposition. Angela Rayner became MP for Ashton-Under-Lyne in 2015 as well as Shadow Secretary of State for Education in July 2016. 

With his wealth of experience and political knowledge, this year marks Jeremy Corbyn’s 34^th year as a Member of Parliament, students' important questions were answered ranging from topics on social mobility to selective education. For Ashton Sixth Form College’s Politics students, opportunities like this do not come along very often. Organised by Speakers for Schools, the college is extremely proud to be able to offer their students experiences outside of the classroom, such as this, that allow them to make more informed decisions about their futures.

Principal Anton McGrath said, “We were very pleased to welcome both Jeremy Corbyn MP and Angela Rayner MP to the college today through the Speakers for Schools charity. The opportunity for our students to listen to their stories and ask questions was a unique experience. The calibre of questioning was excellent with students clearly demonstrating a real passion for politics.”

This visit was organised by Speakers for Schools.