LOCAL students got the chance to showcase their innovative use of technology in learning to the region’s MP.

Launceston Primary School welcomed North Cornwall MP Ben Maguire (Lib Dem) for a visit demonstrating some of the school’s unique uses of technology in teaching.

Mr Maguire began the day with a tour of the school’s new building, facilities, and outdoor learning areas, guided by principal Kate Eyre. He visited every class, observing a variety of activities including festive Christmas crafts, a photography lesson, and a reading session of Roald Dahl’s ‘James and the Giant Peach’.

A particular highlight came when the MP joined Year 4 pupils on a virtual trip to London and the Houses of Parliament using VR headsets. During the session, the MP tried a VR headset for the first time, taking part in the virtual tour alongside the pupils. Their teacher also used the visit to deliver a British Values lesson on democracy, with pupils set to visit the real Parliament in Year 6.

The tour concluded with a meeting with the school council in the principal’s office, where pupils asked Mr Maguire questions ranging from his role as an MP to his Christmas plans. The visit also highlighted key wellbeing spaces, including the Den, used by the school’s children’s champion and visiting specialists to support pupils’ emotional and educational development.

Commenting on the visit, Kate Eyre, principal at Launceston Primary School, said: “It was fantastic to welcome Ben Maguire to Launceston Primary and show him our new building, outdoor areas, and the exciting ways pupils are learning. Joining a real-life MP on a virtual trip to London and the Houses of Parliament brought their learning to life, and it was wonderful to hear them sharing their ideas and questions with him.”