Chigwell Pupils Elect Representatives to the Epping Forest District Youth Council

In the penultimate week of the Lent term, the Politics Department organised an election for the Epping Forest District Youth Council, giving pupils a valuable opportunity to engage in local democracy. Pupils aged 13 to 19 were eligible to stand as candidates, while all pupils from Years 7 to 13 voted to elect the two individuals they felt would best represent them and the School on local issues affecting young people.

Candidates created campaign posters and delivered speeches to an audience of Year 9 and 10 pupils, outlining their pledges and priorities should they be elected. After a well-run and energetic campaign period, pupils cast their ballots in a formal voting process mirroring real‑world elections.

The two successful candidates will now be returned as Youth Councillors to the Epping Civic Office chambers, where they will serve a two‑year term representing the interests and voices of young people in the community.

Particular thanks go to our diligent polling station clerks - Jakub, Yuvan and Will - whose professionalism and efficiency ensured the smooth running of the election and the accurate issuing and counting of ballot papers.

This initiative provides pupils with meaningful experience of civic responsibility, public speaking, campaigning and democratic participation - skills and insights that will stay with them well beyond their time at school.