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The first Henry Parkes Citizenship Convention for schools was held at NSW Parliament House on Monday 25 October.

With help and advice from Graham Spindler, Parliamentary Education Manager, and Mary Gray, Education History and Civics Manager for the NSW Centenary of Federation Committee, a very successful program was organised.

Nearly 100 students from years 5 and 6 gathered in the Legislative Assembly Chamber to discuss the question ‘An Australian republic: What do you think?’ with Cherie Burton, MP for Kogarah, in the chair.

Thirteen primary schools from the three systems—state, private and Catholic—participated, with conventions held in each school leading up to the main event. This meant that around 1400 students had been involved in exploring the issue. Students from each school then presented the results of their school discussions at Parliament House. They also had the chance to give their own views in a ‘soapbox’ session and a vote ‘by division’ was taken at the end of the proceedings.

Since one of our major aims is to interest people in understanding how our political system works and to value opportunities to participate, this was we believe an appropriate first step for the Foundation.

Teachers and students were enthusiastic about the value of the program. Encouraged by the interest shown, we plan to make this an annual event.

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