Two of our students met the Chancellor of the Exchequer at Downing Street

Last week, two of our Year 11 students had a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit Downing Street and meet Rachel Reeves, Chancellor of the Exchequer.

Anoosh Khan and Othniel Ogbonna received the most staff nominations to attend the prestigious meeting, due to their dedication and aspirations. Anoosh, an active member of our Community Council, has ambitions of becoming a barrister, while Othniel, who volunteers to support other students in the Maths Hub, hopes to become a software engineer.

Their visit included a tour of Westminster, where they watched a live debate on Free School Meals, before making their way to 11 Downing Street for afternoon tea with Rachel Reeves. 

During their meeting, the students impressed the Chancellor with their questions. Othniel asked about investment in the North and NHS funding, while Anoosh discussed breaking barriers as the first female Chancellor.

Anoosh also shared the Youth Manifesto for Leeds, developed as part of the Leeds Learning Alliance Youth Summit, highlighting young people's vision for the city.

After their conversation with Rachel Reeves, the students were given an exclusive tour of No.10, visiting the Cabinet meeting room, the state dining room, and the reception room where Sir Keir Starmer recently met President Zelenskyy. Although they didn’t see the Prime Minister, they did spot Larry the Downing Street cat!

Reflecting on the experience, Anoosh said: “The day was really exciting and it felt like a dream to be able to meet Rachel Reeves in No. 11 Downing Street. It was an amazing opportunity and one I will remember forever.”

Othniel added: “I really enjoyed meeting the Chancellor. I consider it as one of the best days of my life. It was such a great opportunity to go inside both No. 10 and No.11 Downing Street. I know this was a special event that very few people get to experience.”