Students at The Bedford Sixth Form recently welcomed Bedford MP Mohammad Yasin to campus for an engaging visit, during which they had the opportunity to question him on a range of local and national issues.

The discussions also reflected on the role and voices of women in Bedford, coinciding with March’s International Women’s Day.

The visit began with a tour of the Sixth Form before Mr Yasin met with members of the student council. Students raised a number of topical issues affecting the local area, including East West Rail, Universal Studios and parking in Bedford, prompting thoughtful discussion and debate.

Amal Ahamed Mohamed Safrask, a student at The Bedford Sixth Form, said:

“It was a privilege to have a discussion with Mr Yasin MP. We had an invaluable discussion sharing the concerns of Bedford’s young people and exploring potential policy solutions. Learning about his career and his 5-year vision for our town left us feeling incredibly optimistic about the future.”

MP visit

During the afternoon, Mr Yasin also took part in the sixth form’s ‘Hidden Book’ challenge to mark World Book Day, successfully finding the book and collecting his prize from the library.

The visit concluded with a Q&A session with Year 12 Law and Politics students, where they discussed working in government, public service, political life and the role of MPs in representing their communities.

Student President, Sherelle Weeks, shared:

“Listening to MP Mohammed Yasin’s personal journey had particularly inspired me. How he was able to work his way up from serving as a local councillor, to not only being an MP but retaining his position for three consecutive terms. His dedication in serving the local community and being attentive to the needs of the Bedford community was made clear in the new developments in Bedford that he has helped influence.

It was also very insightful to learn about his views on the best way forward for this nation, how Labour seeks to take pragmatic steps to address issues ranging from challenges facing local councils to strengthening international relations with other countries.”

Head of The Bedford Sixth Form, Hayley Doyne-Ditmas added:

“Today offered a wonderful experience for our students, who were eager to hear insights on the big issues affecting them and the wider community. They asked thoughtful, pressing questions that showcased maturity, curiosity, and a genuine interest in how politics shapes their lives.”

The visit provided students with a valuable opportunity to engage directly with their local MP, broaden their understanding of political life and explore how decisions made at both local and national level can have a direct impact on their community.

Mohammad Yasin MP commented:

“As part of Colleges Week, I was delighted to visit The Bedford Sixth Form  and meet with Year 12 students studying law and politics. It was a pleasure to hear their thoughtful questions and discuss the role politics and public policy play in shaping their futures.

Seeing young people so curious, passionate, and willing to engage with the issues affecting their communities is incredibly inspiring.

During my visit I toured the Sixth Form college and even joined a fun scavenger hunt to find hidden books around the campus. managing to win a prize along the way.

Colleges Week is an important opportunity to celebrate the vital role further education colleges play in equipping young people with the skills, confidence, and opportunities they need to succeed.”

For more information on The Bedford Sixth Form please visit: https://www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk/