The general election gave many youngsters a thirst for politics – but it also taught some at Maryland school about the bread and butter of democracy.

Five children shortlisted for head boy and head girl spent the last two weeks campaigning, battling to be the one to represent their fellow peers.

During an election-themed assembly candidates outlined their plan on Friday, May 1, before pupils returned to classrooms to cast their vote in true democratic style.

“The slogans the candidates were using in the general election helped me develop my speech,” Navaeh Matthews told the Recorder after being crowned head girl.

“It felt really exciting and I’m appreciative of the result. I was shocked because the other competitors were good and I found it a tough competition.”

The 10-year-old who is in Year Six said the experience had made her interested in politics – now she’s eager to see what the government introduces to improve schools.

“I want to find out what the students are unhappy with and then change that. I want to do it because after I leave the school I really want to know I’ve helped.”

Teacher Darren Lock organised the event to raise awareness about the democratic process of UK elections.

He said: “It was a great chance for them to show off their ability to speak to large crowds. It really gave the whole school a good link to what was happening in the world.”