Lauren Edwards MP Visits Cedar Children’s Academy: A Morning of Inspiration and Insight

On the morning of Friday, 14th November 2025, Cedar Children’s Academy had the honour of welcoming Lauren Edwards MP and her aide, Mark Harrison, for a special visit that highlighted the vibrancy, curiosity and leadership of our pupils. From 9:30 to 10:30am, the school buzzed with excitement as our guests toured the grounds, engaged with students and participated in meaningful discussions about education, wellbeing and the future.

A Warm Welcome and Student-Led Tour

The visit began with a guided tour led by a group of Year 6 pupils who also serve on our student council. Their pride in the school was evident as they introduced Lauren and Mark to various parts of the academy, including our Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), Year 1 and Year 2 classrooms and the wider Key Stage 2 areas. The children spoke passionately about the school’s ethos, achievements and the nurturing environment that supports every learner.

Lauren and Mark were impressed by the confidence and knowledge of the student guides, who showcased the school’s facilities and shared insights into daily life at Cedar. From creative classroom displays to interactive learning spaces, the tour offered a glimpse into the dynamic and inclusive culture that defines our academy.

A Thoughtful Q&A with the Student Council

Following the tour, Lauren sat down with members of the student council for a lively and thoughtful question-and-answer session. The children had prepared a range of questions that reflected their awareness of national issues and their desire to understand how politics affects their lives.

• Darci opened the discussion with a question about mental health. Lauren responded with empathy, emphasising that mental health is just as important as physical health. She shared that the government is working to establish health hubs across the country and increase the number of mental health professionals in schools to better support young people.
• Jacob asked what inspired Lauren to pursue a career in politics. She explained that her journey began while working for another MP, followed by her election as a local councillor. Encouraged by her experiences, she decided to run for Parliament and was pleasantly surprised by her success.
• Ziva raised a concern about the rising cost of swimming, noting that it’s a vital life skill. Lauren acknowledged the issue and mentioned that she believed free swimming was still available for children. She promised to follow up with the local council and explore additional schemes to make swimming more accessible for families.

Other questions touched on topics such as litter and dog mess in public spaces, employment opportunities, the impact of artificial intelligence and future career prospects for young people. Lauren answered each with honesty and enthusiasm, encouraging the children to stay informed and engaged with the world around them.

Insight from School Leadership and Governance

The session was also attended by Elizabeth Alexander, our dedicated parent governor, and Mrs Talbot-Brown, our deputy headteacher. They posed a powerful question about the challenges Lauren faces as a female MP. Lauren reflected on the evolving landscape of politics, noting that while there are now many women in government, challenges remain. She highlighted the increasing volume of correspondence she receives regarding Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), particularly around school placements and assessments—a pressing issue in her constituency.

A Celebration of Student Voice

As the visit drew to a close, both Lauren and Elizabeth praised the student council for their articulate questions and confident presentation of the school. Their contributions were a testament to the hard work and guidance of Mrs Snowling, who leads the student council with dedication and care.

We are incredibly proud of our pupils for representing Cedar Children’s Academy with such maturity and enthusiasm. Their engagement with real-world issues and their ability to communicate effectively with public figures like Lauren Edwards MP demonstrate the strength of our school community and the importance of fostering student voice.

Thank You

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Lauren Edwards MP and Mark Harrison for taking the time to visit our school, listen to our students and share their experiences. It was a memorable morning that left a lasting impression on everyone involved.