RUDHEATH students rubbed shoulders with some of the UK's most powerful people on a visit to London.

During a tour of the Houses of Parliament, the group of 13 to 15-year-olds grilled Tatton MP Esther McVey on topical issues and took part in a workshop.

They took in sessions in the Commons and Lords, and saw the sights of College Green, Horse Guards Parade, Buckingham Palace, Oxford Street, Mayfair and more.

Northwich Guardian:

Rudheath Senior Academy head Ana Roslan said: "We watched a discussion on social media and mental health in the main chamber, then saw Lords going in for their afternoon session.

"All our learners asked thoughtful questions and engaged fully. Esther was given quite a grilling.

"On College Green after our visit we saw Ed Miliband and lots of film crews awaiting politicians to film.

"I can't tell you how impressed the people sharing our train carriages were with our learners' behaviour and attitude. I was absolutely bursting with pride. We're looking forward to more opportunities like this to develop citizenship in our school."

Northwich Guardian:

It is the second time some of the pupils have met former secretary of state Esther recently.

During a visit to the academy, formerly University of Chester Academy Northwich (UCAN), Ms McVey pledged her long-term support to an ambitious project to make the school better than ever before.

It follows a devastating arson attack in February last year, which resulted in an ongoing rebuild of facilities, including the sports hall.

Northwich Guardian:

The school became part of North West Academies Trust (NWAT) in November and already many positive changes have taken place.

One of the highest performing Trusts in the country, NWAT has a proven track record of improving schools.