STUDENTS welcomed their local MP to help develop a project aiming to build relationships between young people and politicians.

Clywd South MP Simon Baynes visited the Maelor School in Penley and took part in the school's The Politics Project with a questions and answer session.

The questions were prepared for Mr Baynes by 25 pupils between the ages of 11 and 13 and the topics involved him speaking about his experiences in politics, the role of an MP and his perspective on local and national issues.

The Clywd South MP also met headteacher, Simon Ellis, head of history and politics, Rob Quinn, and head of the humanities faculty Graham Reardon, and Mr Baynes was pleased with the curiosity and enthusiasm shown by the pupils.

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He said: "It was very good to have the opportunity to engage with the bright and inquisitive students at The Maelor School in Penley.

"The level of understanding and interest they displayed in political matters was impressive.

"Initiatives like the Digital Dialogue: Wales programme provide an invaluable platform for young individuals to learn about the democratic process.

"I commend the school and The Politics Project for their efforts in nurturing informed and engaged citizens."

The school hopes to see its pupils become politically aware and responsible and contribute positively to their communities and Mr Quinn was pleased that pupils had this experience.

He said: "This was a fantastic experience for our students who are studying governance as part of the humanities programme for the new curriculum for Wales."

Head of programmes at The Politics Project, Ian Pope was pleased to see young people speak with Mr Baynes and thanked the MP and the school for holding the session.

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He said: "Thank you to Simon Baynes MP and the learners and teachers at The Maelor School for a fantastic dialogue session.

"The questions from the young people were of an impressive standard and it was great to see young people engaged in local and national issues.

"Through the Digital Dialogue: Wales programme, The Politics Project wants to make sure that during their time at school young people can have the chance to have a meaningful conversation with a politician and build positive relationships.

"We really appreciate Simon’s support in helping us achieve that aim."