Inspiring Futures through Learning Youth Parliament begins third academic year

CEO Sarah Bennett engaging pupils during the YP meeting

The Inspiring Futures through Learning (IFtL) Youth Parliament has officially commenced its third academic year, welcoming a cohort of 44 young representatives from across IFtL’s 21 schools. Each school has nominated two pupils to participate, with Brooklands Farm represented by four pupils to reflect its two-site structure.

The first meeting of the 2024–25 Youth Parliament coincided with UK Youth Parliament Week, setting the stage for a year of collaboration, leadership, and action. This year, members are focusing on sustainability, inclusion, and understanding the wider role of IFtL in shaping the educational community.

The Youth Parliament includes pupils ranging from Year 2 in five of IFtL’s infant schools to Year 5 and Year 6 pupils in primary schools. The President and Vice President, both Year 10 pupils from Glebe Farm, provide leadership for the cohort. The President was elected in the previous academic year, while the Vice President was elected this year.

Meetings are hosted by the CEO, who is committed to involving young leaders in shaping the future of IFtL. Sessions are consistently supported by Jason Smith, Head of Operations and Sustainability Lead; Miss Blackhurst, teacher representative leading on technology; and Mrs Jones, Marketing Manager, responsible for coordinating the programme.

One of the first initiatives of the academic year will be Switch Off Friday on 19 December. During this event, all schools in IFtL turn off electricity and gas at the end of the half term, reducing energy use over the holidays and supporting the Youth Parliament’s sustainability goals.

Throughout the year, the Youth Parliament will continue to discuss and implement projects that promote inclusion, sustainability, and an understanding of IFtL’s broader vision, empowering young people to take an active role in shaping the Trust’s future.