SECONDARY school pupils swapped the classroom for the council offices this week as they went to learn about how local government works.

Students from Potters Bar schools Dame Alice Owen’s and Mount Grace hit Hertsmere Borough Council headquarters this week for a special youth conference which included a theatre performance explaining the difference between county and borough councils, council officers and councillors, as well as why we pay council tax.

Held on Thursday, the day at the Civic Offices in Borehamwood, which was also attended by students from Queens School, in Bushey, enabled the youngsters to get involved in an electronic voting workshop.

Additionally, there was a panel of experts to discuss media representation of young people and any negative stereotyping they may have come across.

Cllr Brenda Batten, portfolio holder for culture and health, said: “This was a good opportunity for young people to learn about how democracy works and allowed the students to discuss local issues with councillors through a fun speed-meeting exercise. “