Published: Friday, 5th September, 2008 12:30
They wanna be elected
By David O'Leary
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Election fever swept through the halls of Broughton Primary School on Monday morning.
A whole host of media descended on the school, as the children started their term by getting straight down to the business of electing their Captains and Vice-Captains.
Manifestos were prepared, slogans were finalised and undecided voters were lobbied; no palms were greased however, as the pupils got a first-hand view of democracy in action.
Local television production company, Trahenna, filmed each pupil as they delivered their manifesto and the Peeblesshire News was also on hand to ask some tough questions.
The prestigious role of House Captain, of either Rachan, Cardor or Dreva, is open to all P7 pupils, whereas the Vice –Captain’s positions are open to all P6 pupils.
The pupils delivered their manifestos to camera with gusto and promises were made for more goalposts and basketball nets, and better toys for the playground sandboxes.
Each candidate neatly ducked any reference to the current economic climate.
Nathan Braggins, 11, announced himself as the man to lead his house as he proudly stated his ownership of 32 cats, 2 dogs, 3 quails and one hamster. Somewhat unnervingly he stated his hobby as making powerful bows and arrows but finished with the reassuring cry of ‘Remember Nathan never quits’.
Ten-year-old farmer Mark Swapp, also believed his animal-caring skills to be beneficial if elected to the role of Vice-Captain. The key plank of his manifesto was the promise of more breaktime and he ended with the announcement, ‘Vote for me you won’t be sorry.’
Maisy Wilson, 11, delivered a stirring speech which touched on her good work as Vice-Captain with the previous regime and also her role in the foundation of the eco-committee.
She issued a clarion call by declaring her intent to lead Rachan to victory, finishing with a clever motto sure to stick in voter’s heads, ‘Don’t vote for laziness, vote for Maisy-ness.’
P7 teacher Debbie Adams declared the day a real success and believes that it give the pupils a clear insight into the workings of the modern world.
She said: “As well as working on their presentation skills, the elections also gives them a chance to realise their strengths and understand that with power comes responsibility.
“I do drama myself and understand how daunting it can be but they’ve really shone. They’ve all done fantastic.”
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