As a teenager living in the United Kingdom, I have noticed a significant gap in what young people are taught about politics in school. While I possess the ability to recite the quadratic formula and analyse the themes of ambition in Shakespeare's Macbeth, I have noticed a worrying absence in my- and my peers'-  understanding of politics. The governance of our nation is a matter that undoubtedly impacts our future, perhaps even more so than our academic qualifications. Regrettably, the educational curriculum in many schools fails to provide adequate insight into how the government functions and the importance of active participation in the electoral process. Consequently, many young people exhibit disinterest in political affairs.

Unless a student chooses to pursue A Level Politics or International Relations, they are deprived of any formal political education during their time at school. Recognising this deficiency, I am an advocate for the implementation of a mandatory subject for schoolchildren across the country, known as 'Political Studies'. Through this proposed curriculum, students would be equipped with essential knowledge about current affairs, the electoral system, and other relevant information crucial for their adult lives.

The youth demographic is positioned to shape the future of our nation, making it imperative for us to be knowledgeable about and actively engaged in politics to ensure that our leaders effectively represent the interests of the people. As I approach the end of my school journey, my frustration grows each time I witness the lack of preparation provided to students regarding political involvement and the voting process, contributing to the abysmally low voter turnout among 18-24 year olds in the UK. The absence of Political Education perpetuates a cycle of apathy and disengagement among individuals as they reach voting age, fostering beliefs that their opinions hold no weight in the realm of Politics.

It is paramount for young people to have a comprehensive understanding of politics, as the leadership of our country is able to hugely influence entire generations. I am resolute in my belief that all young individuals should be empowered with the knowledge that they possess the capability to shape their futures through active participation in political affairs. By incorporating political education into the academic curriculum, we can inspire future generations with the confidence and awareness necessary to navigate the complexities of the political landscape and effect positive change for the advancement of society.