Cranford Review 2016

On
Thursday 23rd June 2016 the people
of the United Kingdom went to the
polls to vote on the EU Referendum, probably
one of the most important votes since the
Second World War
Cranford Students
have their say on the
EU Referendum
During the weeks preceding this vote, students
at Cranford learnt about both sides of the
argument for Brexit and for Remain through
assemblies led by sixth form students, tutor
group discussions and regular information
from the various debates taking place via the
media.
On the day of the vote Cranford students wanted to have their say and held an in school ballot.
Although many of them are too young to vote it is clear from the results that students at Cranford had
a view on how the country should vote for their future.
Mr Kalsey, Psychology teacher who organised the event said:
“I am so incredibly pleased and proud with the professionalism shown by the student ambassadors. The
question of the referendum is a dizzying and disorienting one; the issue is complex and there are not
only many political, economic and societal considerations to take into account, but at the same time,
our values and beliefs are called to the fore by this, most major, decision we have to take as a country.
Consequently, many adults have struggled to formulate cogent and informed positions about Britain’s
membership to the European Union. In light of this, it has been refreshing to see how adeptly these
students researched this issue and explained their views publicly to the students in assemblies. I believe
these students performed a valuable service to the school by inducing some clarity and stimulating
conversation amongst students and staff about what will be one of the most important political decisions
of the 21st century”.
Jaspal Kalsey (Psychology Department)
“It was truly a great feeling to be able to have a say on what is undoubtedly
one of the greatest political decisions of the 21st century and to influence,
inform and educate students throughout the school on what they may initially
perceive as something that would not have any impact on their lives. I hope we
enlightened young minds and enabled them to formulate a reasoned standpoint
on the question of the EU referendum”.
Zarak Khan (year 12)
44
“I really enjoyed presenting to the
younger years as I hoped that the
referendum on Britain’s membership
of the European Union would help
ignite the flame of passion for politics
amongst students as I felt that there
were not enough people who were
knowledgeable about this key question
and topics related to it. It was good to
share our ideas and opinions to help
them formulate their decision on whether
leaving or staying is better. All in all it
was a very good experience because it
helped us to develop our public speaking
skills at the same time”.
Ubaid Rizvi (year 12)
“Involving myself with such
an important decision about
the future of our country has
definitely proved to be an intense
brainstorming exercise for me; each
stage throughout the process has
enriched many aspects of my skill
set. In the process of researching, my political awareness was truly
extended; where initially I knew nothing, I now have enough knowledge
to be able to generate a personal opinion regarding a major political
issue. Secondly, presenting our case physically to every year group
undoubtedly enhanced my public speaking skills. This experience has
been very stimulating as I believe it is important to be educated on
global affairs, especially those that will significantly impact our lives.
I am grateful to have been a part of such a project that has allowed me
to bring awareness to others”.
Sahithya Natarajan (year 12)