Jessica Toale MP and Bournemouth University lecturers launch new summer school to inspire next generation of changemakers

Jessica Toale, MP for Bournemouth West, has launched a brand-new two-day summer school, developed in collaboration with lecturers from Bournemouth University, to help local students explore how politics works, shape the issues that matter to them and take action to change things. 

Taking place on 28–29 August in Bournemouth, the non-residential programme will bring together 75 students aged 16–19 from across the area. Participants will engage with guest speakers, build media and communication skills, and gain insight into how political decisions are made both locally and nationally.

Jessica said: “I hear time and again from young people who are keen to get involved in politics – who want to understand how decisions are made and how they can make a real difference to the world around them.

This summer school is a unique opportunity to open doors, spark ambition, and equip students with the confidence and tools to speak up, lead, and make change happen. I’m proud to be working closely with Bournemouth University lecturers to deliver an inspiring and practical introduction to public life.”

Professor Scott Wright, Deputy Dean in the Faculty of Media and Communication and an expert in political communication, said: “this is a great opportunity for young people to come on to campus and learn about politics in our industry standard media facilities, being mentored by world-leading experts in politics, journalism and media literacy and people involved in British politics from MPs to councillors and journalists to staffers. This is your chance to see behind the curtain and find out how politics work.” 

Designed to be inclusive and accessible, the programme is open to students who live in Bournemouth or attend a school or college in the area. Eligible applicants may be in sixth form, college, studying GCSEs or A-levels, or recent school leavers - up to the age of 19.

Applications are now open. Organisers are looking for highly motivated, engaged students who want to make a difference to their local community, regardless of academic background or previous experience in politics.

The deadline to apply is Thursday 1 August 2025.

Apply here