What does the Mayor do? Milton Keynes schoolchildren found out this week

The morning was an opportunity for them to find out more about the role of the Mayor and Deputy Mayor and how the council works. They also carried out their own real life election to find two class ‘Helping Hands’.

More than 60 pupils from Thistle and Fern classes welcomed Cllr Hopkins and members of the elections team who explained the mayoral role and how elections work. He was also given an extensive tour of the school before facing questions from the young people including ‘What inspired you to become a councillor?’ and ‘Who is your favourite singer?’.

The group then heard from six class mates vying to represent them as one of two ‘Helping Hands’. The role is a social, cultural and spiritual one and the pupil chosen is charged with ensuring everyone in the class is heard, looked after and able to celebrate birthdays, events and their successes.

After a tight race, Mya Aulak and Cara Richardson, both aged 9, were elected.

Cllr Hopkins said: “It was an honour to be invited to Long Meadow School and see their election taking place. The pupils are a credit to the school and I am proud to know that these young people will form our future in Milton Keynes; we may even have some politicians in the making! I really enjoyed the morning.”

Year 5 teacher, Kaytee Bird, added: “This was a great experience for the children. We have been learning about democracy at school in the run up to the visit so it was great for the children to hear first-hand from Cllr Hopkins and the team