A-level Politics students have been busy over the last few weeks studying the British Constitution and constitutional change. To further their knowledge, they have been on two valuable trips to explore devolution (the giving away of some powers to parts of the UK on a regional and local level).
The first stop was Cirencester Town Council. Here students explored the role of Cirencester Town Council in supporting the local community. They also learnt more about the possible impact of the current government’s plans to restructure two-tier local authorities, such as Cotswolds District Council. This is part of the government’s devolution revolution, hoping to create larger authorities.
Their second trip was to the Welsh Senedd as part of their study of devolution for the home nations. Students were fortunate enough to listen to a talk about how governance in Wales works, and they got to go inside the chamber and learn how the Welsh system of electing Members of the Welsh Senedd will change in elections in May 2026. Students also got a comprehensive history of Wales and how the building was designed to showcase a wealth of Natural materials.
Isaac, Year 1, said “I found the Cirencester Town Council trip incredibly useful as an insight into how local democracy can function and flourish through councils throughout the UK. Having the opportunity to visit Cirencester Town Council and actually meet and speak with councillors about their work has definitely helped enhance my understanding of UK Politics as a whole, such as the powers differing council tiers have.
Seren, Year 1, said “I really enjoyed going to the Senedd and seeing how different it is from the English senate. It was very interesting to learn about how devolution changed Wales.”
For more information on this story please contact chloe.suter@cirencester.ac.uk
