Pupils quizzed parliamentary candidate during a democracy day to inspire them to take a keen interest in politics.

Students from the Oasis Academy Hadley, in South Street, Ponders End, enjoyed a series of debates and workshops organised to offer insight into government, parties and policies.

Six Edmonton representatives from the Conservatives, Labour, Liberal Democrats, UKIP, the Green Party and TUSC also took questions from sixth form pupils on issues from austerity to immigration.

Student Voice co-oordinator Brian Nelis, who organised Democracy Day, described it as “a day to promote the student voice”.

He said: “It’s so important to give kids the skills and knowledge needed to take part in debates around elections so they are aware of what is going on.

“We want to give them more than a theoretical experience of politics by offering a real insight into the process.”

While Sixth Formers grilled the election candidates, pupils from the lower years enjoyed lessons on the history of democracy, debating skills and current affairs.

Year 7 students Tayshane and Emily said they had enjoyed planning their own countries and drawing up laws.

However, while Emily said she would not mind going into politics, Tayshane’s response was an outright ‘no.’ The day culminated with a school-wide debate on the question of whether voting should be made compulsory.

Year 13 student Alina Chaudry-Chirita said: “The whole day has been really helpful. I’ve learnt much more about politics, especially the different viewpoints of all the parties’’.

Year 12 pupil Dillan Abraham said: “I think we should have days like this more often. MPs and candidates should go directly to the young people they represent.’’

Edmonton Conservative candidate Gonul Daniels added: “It’s been a great idea because we could actually meet the students. It is so interesting to hear what their views are."

Principal Oveta McInnis said the school hoped to hold more similar days during elections in future.