Chesterfield’s multinational students lend voice to debate about issues facing the future of the European Union


Nahoko Goldstraw is pictured receiving her prize.

Students from Chesterfield College’s English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) programme each brought a unique perspective to a national citizenship forum last month, as the eighteen delegates represent thirteen different nationalities.

The aim of the event, which was held at Manchester Town Hall, was to involve people aged 16-25 in interactive activities which explore the way the European Union works, as well as to discuss issues that are important to them.

Over 100 young people met with Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) to debate issues surrounding the European Union.

The format of the day was designed to encourage group discussions about five different subjects relating to the EU, led by citizenship trainers and teachers. The subjects included human rights, migration, the environment and sustainable development, trade, economics and democratic structures in the EU.

Feedback and questions gained from the groups was used to kick-start a debate with MEPs John Whittaker (UKIP) and Michael Hindley (former Labour MEP from 1984-1999).

Chesterfield College ESOL student Nahoko Goldstraw, from Japan, won a competition for the best idea to get young people interested and involved in the EU.

Her proposals included a web/tv drama about serious EU issues using young European celebrities and musicians who would work for charity; or an animation/film contest hosted on the internet, where young people could vote for the best production.

All the conference participants were asked to take part in the competition, and then the top 2 suggestions were chosen by the parliamentary office and voted on by the rest of the participants.

Nahoko, who has lived in the UK for four years, was thrilled to receive the ipod prize, and said that the conference gave her a real insight into European politics.

Programme Manager for ESOL Lorraine Hall said, “Even though many of our learners are from countries outside the EU, they are very interested in the issues that affect where they live, as well as international politics generally.”