The SNP MSP for Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse, Christina McKelvie MSP, welcomed a class of Primary 6 pupils from St Mark’s Primary School to the home of Scottish democracy: the Scottish Parliament.

The pupils, from a local school within the Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse constituency, enjoyed a tour of the parliament, a question and answers session with the MSP, and even had lunch in a committee room.

During the tour, the pupils got to see the Debating Chamber, even enjoying a seat on the desks of an MSP and saw the famous garden lobby where press huddles are often shown on the evening news.

For those that often walk the halls of Holyrood, it is a familiar sight to see a class of primary school children wandering at the architectural marvels of the modern building, but this was slightly different. One of the pupils had visited the parliament and was so overawed by his experience that he felt compelled to share the experience with his classmates. This touching example of inclusivity meant that him and his classmates got to experience the home of Scottish democracy together.

Commenting on the visit, Christina said:

“It was such a lovely change to the ordinary working day here in parliament to have the incredibly enthusiastic and bright Primary 6 class from St Mark’s Primary School visit in the parliament.

“Not so long ago, due to Covid, this was not at all possible. I am very pleased that these visits are possible once more.

“I enjoyed fielding a range of truly inciteful and intriguing questions! There was much interest in the work of an MSP, the work of the Government, and about some of the quirks of the parliament building itself.

“Judging by the personalities and intellect of these precocious pupils, I have no doubt that the future of Hamilton – and the future of Scotland – is in truly safe hands.

“I personally believe that ensuring that the Scottish Parliament is accessible to the future generations is a fundamental aspect of developing participation in our democracy. I hope I made clear to everyone that visited today that politics is open to everyone, and that no dream is unachievable.

“I also want to say a massive thank you to the staff of St Mark’s Primary School for the fantastic and inspirational work they do on a daily basis for our children.

“And I thank the staff of the Scottish Parliament for providing catering and a superb tour!”