East Ham MP Stephen Timms has launched a new initiative for young people in Newham to engage them in politics.

The event was hosted by London City Airport, sponsors of the Summer School, from the Royal Docks ahead of the start of the programme this week.

Twelve youngsters from schools across Newham will spend the next three weeks of their summer holidays gaining a first-hand experience of politics and serving their communities. They have been given the opportunity to spend time in Westminster and in Newham Council where they will learn about the political process nationally and locally.

The students will develop new skills such as working with the media and campaigning, and they will have the chance to meet a range of politicians and professionals working in the politics.

As part of the programme the students will also spend two weeks working with a charity in Newham on a project that will benefit residents. This year they will be working with Aston Mansfield and the Newham All Star Sports Academy.

Mr Timms said: “Young people are keen to make a difference and contribute to society, but often face many barriers. That is why I am delighted to be launching a summer school to give students across Newham an insight into politics and inspire them to get involved and help shape society. My hope is that the students who participate in the summer school are enthused about politics and encouraged to make their voices heard.”

Declan Collier, CEO of London City Airport, said: “London City Airport is proud to be sponsoring the inaugural Stephen Timms Summer School. We are committed to working with people of all ages in Newham to help create opportunities and build the workforce of tomorrow. We are therefore pleased to support an educational programme to raise political awareness amongst young people.”

Nilufa Ahmed, a student at Brampton Manor Academy who will be participating in this year’s Summer School, said: “I am really looking forward to gaining an insight into the world of politics both at a local and national scale. I look forward to watching a live debate in the House of Commons and learning new techniques in order to improve on my own debating skills!”