Local MP and a Lord among inspiring guest speakers visiting sixth form students

Students at New City College Havering Sixth Form were treated to a series of engaging talks last week from three distinguished guest speakers, including Lord Lilley, Hornchurch and Upminster MP Julia Lopez, and a representative from Havering Council.

Two of the talks were tailored to specific A Level subjects and provided invaluable insights into politics, society and the law. The other was targeted at female students and highlighted community safety as part of the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls campaign (VAWG).

Lord Lilley

A Level Law students had the unique opportunity to hear from Lord Lilley through the popular Learn with the Lords programme. His informative presentation covered his journey into politics and his former job as an MP, as well as the vital role of the House of Lords in UK Parliament, including law-making, holding the government to account, and contributing to policy recommendations.

Students gained a deeper understanding of these processes and participated in an engaging Q&A session where they asked some insightful questions.

Law teacher Erin Welch, who organised the visit, said: “Lord Lilley remarked on how engaged our students were and was particularly impressed with the questions they asked him. His talk was an amazing opportunity for our students to hear directly from someone who is in the House of Lords on a daily basis and it linked perfectly with their A Level Law studies.”

Julia Lopez, MP for Hornchurch and Upminster

MP Julia Lopez spoke to A Level Sociology students about the challenges of balancing family life with a career in politics. Reflecting on her personal journey, she said: “For me, it has been a seven-year rollercoaster, but I find being in politics absolutely fascinating.

“I love the fact that my work can actually change people’s lives. It’s been intense and has had an impact on my family life, but it has also been a privilege.”

Her talk will aid students as they study themes around family and working life.

Sarah Strang – Havering Council’s Community Safety Team

The third guest speaker, Sarah Strang, from Havering Council’s Community Safety Team was joined by Council Leader Ray Morgon and Councillor Barry Mugglestone, as she led an interactive session with female students about keeping safe at home and when out in public.

The session explored the signs of domestic violence and coercive behaviour, as well as ways to stay safe, how to foster respectful behaviour and the role of the bystander to prevent abuse.

New City College remains committed to offering students opportunities to learn from experts and professionals and make real-world connections to their studies.

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