Thursday 6 March 2025
On Thursday 6 March, our Politics, Law and Business Studies students had the opportunity to take part in political research. Peter Hyman and Shuab Gamote visited our Sixth Form to gain an insight into student ideas on democracy, political leaders and social media.
Shuab Gamote is a former student at the school, who studied Politics whilst at our Sixth Form. He spoke to Year 12 students about his career since leaving WHGS. He is now working as a political researcher for a think tank: The Future Governance Forum; that advises the government on policy. Shuab is working for the writer Peter Hyman, who is a former political adviser to Tony Blair and Kier Starmer.
Students engaged in discussions on a range of topics. They shared their opinions of political leaders, such as Donald Trump, Nigel Farage and Kier Starmer. They discussed their ideas on democracy – what is good about it and the flaws. Students gave their views on social media and the information that is created and shared on streaming platforms. They also discussed the role of identity, community and belonging in their lives and the key economic and social concerns for their generation.
This was an amazing opportunity for students to share their views. Their voices were heard without judgement. The information gathered from our students, along with other students from across the UK, will be used to inform the government and political leaders. The think tank will suggest strategies and policy that address some of the issues that are concerning young people today.
Before leaving, Shuab caught up with some of his former teachers who he remembered fondly from his time at WHGS - shout out to Mr Swales and Ms Smith who inspired and challenged Shuab throughout his time at WHGS.