Glastonbury children stage protest in lesson on democracy

By Laura Linham 7th Mar 2025

Young protesters take to the streets in a lesson on democracy and free speech
Young protesters take to the streets in a lesson on democracy and free speech

Schoolchildren in Glastonbury took to the Market Place this week as part of a carefully planned educational exercise on their right to peaceful protest—staging a mock demonstration against the idea of attending school on Saturdays.

As part of the lesson on democracy and free speech, the Year 2 pupils from St John's Infants School were presented with a scenario: Glastonbury's Mayor, Councillor Lokabandhu, had "proposed" that children should start going to school at weekends to improve their learning.

Outraged, the children sprang into action. They designed and created their own placards, proudly displaying messages demanding that weekends remain school-free.

Holding their handmade signs high, they marched down the High Street, gaining attention and even support from local shoppers who cheered them on.

The protest, organised by headteacher Mrs Devane, was designed to teach children about democracy, rights, and peaceful protest in a fun and engaging way.

The Mayor, fully in on the plan, listened to their concerns, admitted his "mistake," and reassured the children that weekends were indeed meant for fun and relaxation.

"I'm delighted to see the young citizens of Glastonbury are so actively engaged in current issues," he wrote on Facebook.

The event provided an engaging way for pupils to learn about their rights, the importance of peaceful protest, and how their voices can make a difference.

     

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