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| UK | Wales | MP calls for citizenship classes (original) (raw)

A north Wales politician has called for a change to the National Curriculum in Wales.

Wrexham MP Ian Lucas wants youngsters to be taught citizenship as a foundation subject.

It is crucial that our children are taught about their rights and responsibilities
Ian Lucas, MP

"It is important that the assembly buys into the concept of citizenship and educates our children about our institutions and duties in society," he said.

Schools in England already teach the subject which is part of the National Curriculum, it is aimed at encouraging young people to develop a greater sense of social responsibility and to counter racism and intolerance.

Courses already running see children carrying out community work for their homework in the subject, and volunteering is also encouraged.

Mr Lucas has argued that children need to be more aware of their behaviour.

"It is crucial that our children are taught about their rights and responsibilities," he said.

Home Office

Mr Lucas added: "It is no good wringing our hands over young people's lack of involvement in politics, if we are not giving them the background they need to play a fuller part."

The Home Office has announced it is keen to involve people who currently feel excluded from society and Mr Lucas believes the change in education would be vital.

"I am very concerned that young people in Wales could miss out on the chance to become more aware of their rights and responsibilities.

"Politics affects everyone in the end; our hospitals, schools, environment and our police forces, to name but a few, are all political issues," he said.

Mr Lucas will raise his concerns with the Welsh Assembly.