Parliamentary Candidates Get a Grilling!
In common with many schools across the country, NCW took part in a mock election at the same time as the General Election. We held a vigorous and exciting campaign and all students were able to cast their vote in the ballot box.
Four brave candidates came forward to stand in the mock election for the main parties: Matthew for the Liberal Democrats, Mike for the Conservatives, Maddy for the Labour Party and Richard for the UK Independence Party. They all spent a very busy couple of weeks producing posters, canvassing the electorate and preparing speeches.
The 2010 mock election had many highlights, and perhaps like the national election it really took off after the Leaders’ Debates. We were lucky enough to have a visit from both the Labour and Conservative parliamentary candidates and NCW students gave them a grilling during a hustings meeting in the Chapel. This meeting was extremely well attended by staff as well as students and was a talking point for days afterwards.
The following day saw our own candidates put on the spot by the electorate in a very lively assembly. They all performed with passion and conviction and it is evident that many of our students are determined to get involved and make a difference to their communities.
Posters for the candidates quickly appeared like a rash through the college, thanks largely to the photographic skills of Ben who put party loyalty aside and took brilliant photos of several of the candidates. Matched with appropriate slogans and with Braille versions alongside, they provided much food for thought for the voters.
And the result – a resounding endorsement of the Liberal Democrat candidate, Matthew, who on 33 votes out of 59 cast (a 75% turnout!) has a clear majority. Let’s hope he can now deliver on his promises!
