Kind-hearted pupils welcome MP into school on fundraising ‘Pyjamarama Day’

Mere Green Primary School had a jam packed and busy Friday (14 May) as they not only celebrated ‘Pyjamarama Day’, where they had to wear their PJs and raise money for children who can’t afford their own books, but they also welcomed Sutton Coldfield MP Andrew Mitchell.

Children in Year 5 at the outstanding primary school, which is part of the Arthur Terry Learning Partnership, were delighted to have the opportunity to learn about Andrew Mitchell’s experiences of being an MP and the chance to ask him their own questions.

Demonstrating their school motto ‘making a difference’, the children showed their interest in social, environmental and local issues with a range of topics covered, including quizzing Mr Mitchell about the amount of litter in Sutton Park and support for those who lost their jobs during Coronavirus.

During the past year, children have not been able to welcome guests into the school, so they were extremely excited to welcome in their local MP.

“The children have missed out on so much over the past year. We at Mere Green want to ensure that we enhance the opportunities we offer to our children to enrich their experience of school. This visit was a part of our wider enrichment offer being provided in summer term in which we are running over 17 clubs; before, during and after school to over 200 of our children,” said Sean Boyd, Deputy Headteacher at Mere Green Primary School.

“I enjoyed how much detail he gave when we asked questions. You could tell he was interested in what we asked,” said year 5 pupil Ryley Cartwright.

“I enjoyed learning more about parliament from a local MP and getting the opportunity to ask him how he become an MP because it is something I’d potentially like to do in the future!” said Liam Powlson, a year 5 pupil.

“It was great to welcome Mr Mitchell to Mere Green Primary School once again. The children had developed thought provoking questions to ask him and asked them with confidence. It is hugely important to ensure children are knowledge of parliament, politics and our democratic process, so I appreciate our local MP nurturing that,” said Richard Anderton, Parliament Teacher Ambassador.

Photo captions:

Main photo: Richard Anderton (Parliament Teacher Ambassador), Tia Hanrahan, Akshara Batchu, Liam Powlson, Sean Boyd (Deputy Head).

Second photo: Year 5 Children listening to Mr Mitchell share his experiences of being an MP