STUDENTS at Tea Gardens Public School had the chance to voice their opinions on matters which impact them and their region.

The school hosted a School Parliament with special guests Member for Port Stephens, Ms Kate Washington; the former Governor of NSW, Rear Admiral Peter Sinclair; former Principals Daryl Martin and Sue Estens; student leaders and staff from Bulahdelah Central School; as well as proud parents, friends and representatives from various community organisations.

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Miss Caitlyn Kelly, Parliamentary Advisor told News Of The Area, “It is a privilege and an honour to be the Parliamentary Advisor for the Tea Gardens Public School Parliament for the third consecutive year.

“Each year I am astounded at the maturity and confidence in which our students strive to make positive changes within our school, and this year was no different.

“This school parliament truly reflects the voice of the children and I am filled with pride at each parliamentary sitting, truly grateful to work alongside such strong and conscientious school leaders,” she said.

School Principal Mark Clemson said, “Our students delighted the gallery and debated a number of motions.”

The carried motions were to install bird boxes in the rainforest area and that a covered area be installed outside the stage two classrooms.

However the motion to supply all students from Years 1-6 with a laptop was defeated.

Questions with notice included: the consideration of a toy library for use at lunchtimes, a full licence for MINECRAFT Education? (software) and a ‘ride bikes at school day’.

“Our parliament is based on the Westminster system and has been in operation at the school following a visit to Canberra in 1988.

“Parliament is an opportunity for students to have a voice.

“At our school, every student is known, valued and cared for.

“Our student parliament showcases the voices of our students, their needs, wants and opinions,” he said.

The School Parliament is the vehicle for change giving students the opportunity to discuss what’s best for the students in our community and make positive changes across the school and local community.

By Marian SAMPSON