Twelve young people from across Oldham spent a week getting a close-up view of political and media life, culminating in a visit to 10 Downing Street that organisers described as a highlight of the programme.
Summer school aimed at those about to leave college
The week-long political summer school, organised by Jim McMahon, MP for Oldham West, Chadderton & Royton, targeted students who are preparing to move on from sixth form or college to higher education, further education or apprenticeships. The programme offered a mix of practical and informational sessions intended to help attendees explore career options and build useful life skills.
Alongside the Downing Street tour, the group were taken around the BBC offices at MediaCityUK. The itinerary also included sessions with a variety of local and regional organisations, giving students a range of perspectives on public life, community work and the media.
Partners from across the borough contributed
Mr McMahon thanked the organisations and public bodies that supported the week, noting the importance of contacts and practical exposure for young people who might otherwise struggle to find routes into certain careers.
"Thank you to the 12 fantastic young people who attended this year’s summer school for the time you gave and the way you engaged with and embraced the opportunity each day," Mr McMahon said.
He added that the borough and wider city-region have a lot to offer but some young people are excluded by not knowing how to get their foot in the door — a gap the summer school aims to address.
- Number of attendees: 12
- Key visits: 10 Downing Street, BBC MediaCityUK
- Organiser: Jim McMahon MP
Local support made travel and logistics possible
Mr McMahon specifically acknowledged help from a range of supporters who assisted with travel and arranging visits. He thanked transport partners and local organisations that gave up time during the week to run sessions or host the students.
| Supporters named | Role mentioned |
|---|---|
| Avanti | Supported train travel |
| Bee Network | Supported tram and bus travel |
The summer school is presented as a taster for different pathways, from politics and media to community-based work and business. By bringing small groups to national and regional institutions, the programme aims to demystify careers and give practical advice on how to progress.
For local families and schools, the week offers a model of hands-on engagement that links classroom learning with the institutions and networks students may need once they leave full-time education.
