Following his observations of such a talk given to A-level students in June 2000, John Morrison commented:

"My visit to Preston Manor High School with Debbie Chay, a lecturer in Constitutional Law and consultant to Charter 88, showed how constitutional matters can be brought alive for teenagers. She asked them to imagine themselves as survivors of an air crash on a desert island. How would they run society? Who would have votes? Who would take decisions and by what sort of majority? Dan Graham's A-Level students needed no lessons in the distinction between the dignified and the efficient parts of the constitution when they were asked who wielded power in government. Back came the quick reply: 'It's Alastair Campbell. He takes the decisions. Tony Blair just carries them out'. "

"Reforming Britain" - John Morrison (Reuters 2001)

Citizenship Education:

The advisory group which reported on Education for Citizenship and the Teaching of Democracy in Schools, (QCA 1998), stated that:

"We aim at no less than a change in the political culture of this

country; for people to think of themselves as active citizens."

The National Curriculum for Citizenship at Key Stages Three and Four requires that pupils should be taught about:

• The work of parliament, the government and the courts in making and shaping the law
• The importance of playing an active part in democratic and electoral processes
• The opportunities for individuals and voluntary groups to bring about social change locally, nationally, in Europe and internationally.
• the legal and human rights and responsibilities underpinning society and how they relate to citizens, including the role and operation of the criminal and civil justice systems.

With this in mind, we have developed Democracy Talks, a network of volunteers who facilitate interactive workshops and give talks on issues of democracy, human rights, and constitutional reform. They have been recruited by, and receive regular training from Charter88. Visits are free, although contributions towards expenses are welcome.

Bringing in speakers often proves to be a stimulating way of teaching, what is often thought of as, a dry topic to young people. Our experience has been that, despite media reports of the apathy of young people, they respond well to informative workshops and are keen to discuss issues as diverse as human rights and the role of the media. Examples of typical comments following such a visit arranged through our network are:

"A fascinating and inspiring talk which will be invaluable for their exams and their general interest in the subject" (Nonsuch Girls School Politics Society - London)

"We found the talk to be very stimulating and would like to thank your organisation immensely for their time and effort." (Aylesbury Grammar School)

Charter88 is the campaign for democratic reform in the UK. We have been running a citizenship education programme since 1998 which includes a wealth of resources online, as well as our Democracy Talks scheme.

To request a visit from a Democracy Talks speaker in your area, or for further information, please contact Lucinda on the number below.

Democracy Talks 020 8880 6074 Email education@charter88.org.uk