There has been much written about the problem of decreasing political participation, particularly amongst young people.  However, there was no shortage of interest in the subject for Sydenham High’s Sixth Form during their innovative Induction Day challenge.

The 16- and 17-year olds were challenged to examine the causes of and potential solutions to political disengagement in a university-style day of lectures and seminars, led by a team from Southampton University.

After listening to a keynote lecture, they split into groups to look at four possible features of political disengagement: politicians and political parties; the Internet; the media and the issue of the current voting age.

Following their research, reading and discussion, each group presented back their analysis and conclusions and took questions from the floor.

At the end of the inspirational day, Year 12 student and HSBC scholar, Orlane Doumbe said: “Before this project I never really thought much about politics but now I am determined to be more engaged.”

Year 12 and Year 13 students were mixed together in their working groups.  Lili Telford (also Year 12) said: “This was a great way of working with and getting to know Year 13.”