City Council gives guest lectures at Bahûrim in Brielle

Over 80 students, ages 14 to 17, were given more information about the city council and the work of city council members. The students were presented with a number of propositions to which they could respond in a reasoned manner. The propositions included affordable housing in Voorne aan Zee and how to have a good time in Brielle at this age. The students at Bahûrim have a student council. A number of students are elected to represent interests of the different classes. A very recognizable example for the pupils of a (municipal) council.

Marieke Aantjes, social studies teacher: "For one student this is easy to do, for another it meant really getting out of their comfort zone. Nice to be able to offer a different lesson to the students in this way." To conclude, their knowledge was tested through a series of questions, resulting in winners taking home a nice Voorne aan Zee. For those who were interested, a flyer was provided to sign up to be a Guest of the Council during a council meeting.

It was a successful day where the town council was a guest in class to inform and enthuse young people about politics. The council is looking forward to welcoming the students next year in the council chamber of the town hall to debate with each other about issues that matter to young people and how Voorne aan Zee can reach and involve them. Council member Richard de Zoete: "By debating, students increase their speaking and listening skills. In this low-threshold way, civic competencies such as critical thinking, arguing and showing respect for the opinions of others are strengthened. It also increases self-confidence."