Students Help Shape the Future of Education at the House of Commons

Two students from Eastern Education Group recently travelled to the House of Commons to take part in What Comes Next? The Future of Education Exchange, a national event bringing together young people, educators, policymakers and industry experts to discuss the future of learning in the UK.

Will Garnham from Abbeygate Sixth Form College and Fareed Kasali from One Sixth Form College represented our colleges at the prestigious event, held in the Churchill Room within the Palace of Westminster.

The event was organised by Pearson and provided a unique opportunity for students to share their experiences, ideas and ambitions directly with those involved in shaping education policy. More than 2,000 young people from across the UK had previously contributed their views through a national consultation, and the House of Commons event enabled students to build on that work through a series of discussions and interactive activities.

Throughout the afternoon, students explored some of the biggest questions facing education today, including:

· The knowledge and skills young people need for life and work

· How subject choices and qualification pathways influence future opportunities

· The impact of technology and artificial intelligence on learning

· How education can better support wellbeing, belonging and confidence

Working alongside students from other schools and colleges, as well as education leaders, policymakers and sector specialists, Will and Fareed contributed their own perspectives on what makes learning meaningful and how education can continue to evolve to meet the needs of future generations.

The event also featured the Future of Education Exchange Hub, where students were able to share ideas through interactive activities, vote on important questions about education and technology, and contribute to discussions about what they would like to see change in the future.

Sue Calvino, Head of Pastoral Support and Designated Safeguarding Lead at One Sixth Form College, who accompanied the students, said:

“This was an incredible opportunity for Will and Fareed to ensure that the voices of young people are heard at the highest level. Both students engaged exceptionally well throughout the day, contributing thoughtfully to discussions about the future of education and representing their colleges with professionalism and maturity.

It was inspiring to see policymakers, education leaders and young people coming together to discuss how education can better prepare students for the challenges and opportunities ahead. Events like this demonstrate the importance of ensuring that young people have a genuine voice in shaping the systems that impact their lives.”

The visit reflects Eastern Education Group’s commitment to student voice and ensuring that learners play an active role in influencing decisions that affect their education, wellbeing and future opportunities.

We are incredibly proud of Will and Fareed for representing their colleges so positively and for helping to contribute to national conversations about the future of education.