P7 pupils at East Linton Primary School have been joined by South Scotland MSP Martin Whitfield at one of their lessons as part of their work learning about the Scottish Parliament and democracy.

The East Lothian-based MSP joined the class to talk about his role as a parliamentarian and the way the Scottish Parliament operates, before hosting a Question & Answer session with the pupils.

Following the MSP’s visit, the East Linton pupils will continue their project with a visit to the Scottish Parliament in February, allowing them to find out more about the parliament functions, the day-to-day work of MSPs and how laws are made at Holyrood.

Speaking after the visit, Martin Whitfield MSP said: 

“Speaking to children and young people about the work of the parliament is one of my favourite parts of the job. It’s important to try and ensure they have a good understanding of how our democracy works and the way decisions are made.

“By learning in school now, I hope they will feel confident about becoming involved in the democratic process when they’re older. The fact that the Scottish Parliament is so open and accessible is also a real positive for educating young people about our democracy.

“I want to thank the pupils and their teacher Mrs Hutchison for welcoming me to their school, and I know the class will be visiting the parliament itself soon, when I hope they will learn a lot more about it.”

Any schools wishing to book an education visit to the Scottish Parliament can find out more at www.parliament.scot/get-involved/education/education-sessions.