Pupils from Cosheston VC School in Pembrokeshire, together with St Aidan’s Church in Wales VA School in Wiston, enjoyed an educational visit to the Senedd in Cardiff Bay recently gaining a first-hand insight into how decisions are made in the Welsh Parliament, and to learn about democracy.

During the visit on December 18, pupils took part in an interactive learning session, explored the Senedd building, and learned about the role of Members of the Senedd (MSs) in shaping the laws and policies that affect communities across Wales.

The group also had the opportunity to meet local Member of the Senedd for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, Samuel Kurtz, who spoke to the pupils about his role in representing constituents and answered questions about how young people can get involved in democracy in the future.

As part of their visit, the pupils were delighted to see the Senedd’s Christmas tree and have their photograph taken in front of it, a moment that added an extra sense of excitement and made the day particularly memorable for everyone involved.

Speaking after the visit, Mr Kurtz MS said: “One of the most rewarding parts of my role as a Member of the Senedd is welcoming local schools to Cardiff Bay. The pupils’ wide-eyed sense of wonder when they see the Senedd for the first time is always a reminder of what an honour it is to serve here.

“It was a real pleasure to welcome pupils from Cosheston and Wiston. Seeing their excitement, especially as they admired the Senedd’s Christmas tree and had their photograph taken in front of it, was truly heart-warming.

“Visits like this are a fantastic way to bring democracy to life and help young people understand how the decisions made here can affect their everyday lives,” he added.