What started as a disappointing cancellation turned into one of the most extraordinary school trips St Julian’s Primary School has ever experienced.
Our Pupil Parliament Cabinet Members and Head Children were due to visit the Houses of Parliament today—Budget Day, no less—when Westminster security staff went on strike, forcing Parliament to cancel late the night before. Spirits dipped… but not for long.
One determined parent made a few phone calls, and within hours an unbelievable opportunity opened up:
a private visit to Number 10 Downing Street.
And so began a day our pupils will never forget.
A Welcome Fit for VIPs
After being escorted through tight security, our pupils were greeted by Jessica Morden, MP for Newport East, who welcomed them warmly before taking the all-important photos outside the iconic black door of Number 10.
Once inside, the children were treated to refreshments and then whisked away on a full VIP guided tour by Downing Street staff.
What they saw was nothing short of remarkable.
History Brought to Life
Throughout the tour, pupils were able to get up close to some of the most significant historical artifacts and furnishings in British political history, including:
- Furniture belonging to Sir Robert Walpole, Britain’s first Prime Minister
- Winston Churchill’s reading chair
- William Pitt’s desk
- The world-famous grand staircase, lined with portraits of former Prime Ministers
- Actual Moon rock, gifted to the UK by President Richard Nixon after the Apollo 11 and 17 missions
And of course, the children were absolutely thrilled to spot Larry the Downing Street cat padding around his home.
Leaders in the Making
The visit wasn’t just about sightseeing—it was about stepping into the shoes of real leaders.
In the White Drawing Room, where Prime Ministers welcome global Heads of State, our pupils held their very own press conference.
Then came the moment that left them buzzing…
They sat around the actual Cabinet table in the Government Cabinet Room and held a full Pupil Parliament Cabinet meeting.
Pupil Scarlett Pinder (10) said:
“I loved sitting in Keir Starmer’s chair in the Cabinet Room when we had our meeting!”
Pupil Charlie Spencer (10) added:
“It was the best day ever – seeing everything that we have seen on TV before.”
A Day of Landmark Learning
Beyond Downing Street, the children enjoyed taking in some of London’s most famous landmarks, including Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, and Kensington Palace.
Headteacher Mr Luke Mansfield said:
“It is so important for our children to engage in politics and understand the different layers of government, and how their voices can influence the future.
At St Julian’s Primary, we have our own Pupil Parliament, and it was wonderful for our Cabinet Members to learn about the roles of their Westminster counterparts. Today was truly memorable for all of us, and we are incredibly grateful to Downing Street for their hospitality and kindness.”
An Experience They Will Never Forget
What began as a setback became an unforgettable adventure—one that brought democracy to life in the most powerful way.
Our pupils returned home inspired, empowered, and with stories they will treasure forever.
St Julian’s Primary School is incredibly proud of the way they represented our community at the heart of UK government.
