Deputy calls for politicians to visit schools

A Jersey deputy wants children to learn more about local politics from States Assembly members.

Max Andrews has proposed a formal timetable of political education visits to schools to encourage students to take an interest from a young age.

Mr Andrews said the "lack of political engagement" with young people was a concern.

He said: "I believe members of the States Assembly can enhance outreach and political engagement further with an increase in the amount of formal political education visits to schools that we attend.

"I am hopeful members of the States Assembly will be willing to engage in political education visits to schools in order to promote the work of the States Assembly and increase engagement with political affairs from a young age."

The States host students from Year 5 with visits to the States Chambers annually, but Andrews said further visits to its buildings and into schools could be encouraged.

He said "age relevant materials" could also be provided depending on which group they were talking to.

Andrews added: "If targeted at the correct age groups, 16 and over, we may also see an increase in voter turnout in the 2026 election."

The proposal could be debated in February, and if approved, visits could begin from September.

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