By KLTV Newsdesk –

Second annual programme offers behind-the-scenes access to Parliament, local businesses and civic leaders

A group of young people from Huddersfield enjoyed a week of political engagement, career inspiration and hands-on learning as Harpreet Uppal MP hosted her second annual Political Summer School.

The programme welcomed participants aged 18 to 24 from across the local area, giving them the opportunity to explore politics, public service, business and community leadership through a packed schedule of visits, workshops and discussions.

One of the week’s highlights came during a visit to Parliament, where the group received a surprise visit from Andy Burnham MP, who is on course to become the UK’s next Prime Minister later this month.

Creating opportunities for local young people

Explaining why she was keen to run the programme for a second consecutive year, Harpreet Uppal MP said: “As someone born and raised in Huddersfield, I know first-hand how vital it is that young people in our local area are given the same opportunities to learn, grow and experience new things as anyone else from other parts of the country.

“That is why it is so important to me to run this Summer School every year, to reach as many young people as possible, and allow them to have experiences they may not have otherwise had – learning about politics, public service, business, and community engagement – and giving them the skills they need as they move into further education or the world of work.

“Meeting Andy Burnham was special for the young people, I have to say, and I am delighted he found the time to call in and speak with them.

“I am so proud of this group. They have been so engaged throughout the programme, and brought ideas, curiosity, and thoughtfulness to every activity they have taken part in.”

A packed week of learning and inspiration

The four-day programme began with a question-and-answer session about life as a Member of Parliament before participants visited the TransPennine Route Upgrade offices to learn more about the investment transforming Huddersfield’s railway and wider transport infrastructure.

The following day saw the group travel to Westminster for an extensive programme of meetings and experiences. Participants met ITV journalist Harry Horton and Strategic Consultant John Lehal before touring the Palace of Westminster and visiting No. 10 Downing Street.

The group also met the Speaker of the House of Commons, heard from Angela Rayner MP and attended a panel discussion with fellow 2024 MPs Kirith Entwistle and Dr Zubir Ahmed, who shared their own journeys into politics.

The visit to Parliament was made possible through the generous support of the Fran Perry Foundation, established by John Perry in memory of his wife Fran, who taught Harpreet Uppal and inspired her interest in politics as a teenager.

Surprise visit from Andy Burnham

For many of the participants, the unexpected appearance of Andy Burnham MP proved to be the defining moment of the week.

Ryan, who took part in the Summer School, said: “It was fascinating to hear from Andy Burnham because I used to live in Manchester, so I’ve seen the work he’s done for the city.

“It was inspiring to hear about his experiences in public service and leadership from someone who’s had such a positive impact on the region, and I can’t wait to see what he achieves on a national level.”

Shifa also welcomed the opportunity to ask a question directly to Mr Burnham.

She said: “I asked Andy how he thought his role would change if he went from being Mayor to becoming Prime Minister. It was exciting to ask him a question in person and hear his answer.

“He said that, whatever his role, his priority would always be to work for people, stand against racism, and support those facing difficulties. I found that really inspiring.”

During the visit, Mr Burnham discussed his vision for a “Number 10 in the North” and spoke about the importance of spreading opportunity more evenly across the country, ensuring young people from communities such as Huddersfield have every chance to succeed.

Exploring business, healthcare and media

The third day focused on local industry and innovation.

Participants visited textile manufacturer C&J Antich and Sons, whose fabrics have been worn by celebrities, Olympians and members of the Royal Family. The visit also held personal significance for Harpreet Uppal, whose father worked as a weaver at the company for more than 20 years.

The group then toured the Emily Siddon and Daphne Steele buildings at the University of Huddersfield’s Health Innovation Campus, learning about the opportunities available to local students and the role of the new Community Diagnostic Centre in supporting healthcare across the region.

Later, participants took part in a mock debate on whether social media should be banned for under-16s, with the debate observed and judged by Kirklees Local Television (KLTV).

Engaging with regional leaders

The final day included an online discussion with the Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, and Deputy Mayor and Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Lowe.

Participants questioned the regional leaders on issues including violence against women and girls, crime, and public transport before travelling to BBC Yorkshire’s studios in Leeds for a behind-the-scenes tour, including the chance to present the weather forecast.

Campaigns to improve opportunities for young people

To conclude the programme, participants worked in teams to develop campaigns for Harpreet Uppal MP to champion on behalf of young people in Huddersfield.

Both campaigns focused on improving opportunities for local young people, particularly by increasing access to activities and life-skills education. Harpreet pledged to take the ideas forward in both Parliament and her constituency work.

The campaigns were presented at the Accu Stadium, where Huddersfield Town legend Andy Booth gave participants an exclusive stadium tour before presenting them with certificates recognising their achievements throughout the week.

Applications for Harpreet Uppal MP’s 2027 Political Summer School are expected to open early next year. Interested young people are encouraged to watch for further announcements and reserve their place when applications become available.