PUPILS from Galashiels Academy landed bang in the middle of Brexit debates last week as they visited the UK Parliament.

As MPs began the second day debating the EU withdrawal agreement, the group of around 25 senior pupils studying within the Social Subjects Faculty visited the Parliament to attend a workshop and have a tour of the building.

It is the second time in two years that the school has visited the House of Commons.

The Parliament offers a range of services for visiting schools from across the UK, including tours and workshops on a range of subjects including law making, debating and voting.

Schools from outside London and the south east are eligible for a transport subsidy to help pay for the costs.

As their local MP, John Lamont welcomed the group to the House of Commons and spoke with them about their impression of the Parliament.

Mr Lamont said: “It was great to see pupils and staff from Galashiels Academy at Westminster again.

"They certainly timed their visit well as it is a very busy week in Parliament.

“I hope it was an interesting and rewarding experience to see for themselves how the UK Parliament works.

“Quite a few Borders schools have already taken advantage of the Parliament’s transport subsidy and paid a visit to Westminster.

"I’d encourage anyone with an interest in politics or current affairs to make a trip down to see how Scotland’s other Parliament works.

“While it may look imposing from the outside, Westminster is open to visitors all year-round Monday to Saturday to attend debates, committee hearings or take a tour.”

Pupils and teachers both enjoyed the tour and workshops.

Modern Studies teacher Mr Scott told us: “Again, we had a fantastic visit to Westminster yesterday, a hugely beneficial experience for our young people.

"Meeting with John was a superb opportunity for them to learn more about the Role of an MP.

"The visit also came about at a highly controversial time within politics and the students experienced a real buzz following their visit.

“Those who were able to experience Prime Minister's Questions found it fascinating and an opportunity that they may not have otherwise had the chance to participate in."

Kirsty Ormiston, who is a sixth year pupil, added: “As I am preparing to study Politics and International Relations at university, I found the visit to Westminster an insightful experience which furthered my interest to pursue this career.

“I appreciated the opportunity to engage with my MP, John Lamont, and was impressed by his willingness to answer the questions that we put to him.

"I am excited to see how he votes in next week's Brexit bill and look forward to further engagement with this whilst back in class.”