A MEMBER of a Maldon school was selected to take part in a training opportunity for teachers in the UK Parliament.

James Cooper, the personal development lead at Plume Academy in Maldon, secured a place in the Teacher Ambassador Programme at Westminster.

The opportunity is a three-day training programme which aims to develop learners' and colleagues’ knowledge of the UK Parliament.

It aims to build on individuals’ knowledge, helping them to deliver learning experiences exploring democracy and active citizenship in schools and colleges.

While attending the programme in London, Mr Cooper met Maldon MP Sir John Whittingdale.

Sir John said: “I was delighted to learn that James has become a UK Parliament Teacher Ambassador and to welcome him to Westminster.

“I have always been very keen to ensure that our young people understand the importance of democracy and how Parliament works.

“I am always happy to visit schools in my constituency to talk about this and I look forward to working with James at the Plume.”