A SIXTH form college student with a keen interest in politics will head to Westminster as part of a select committee discussing work experience opportunities for young people.
Dominic Jones, 16, is part of the Youth Select Committee that will put questions to young people, experts, education providers and businesses on how to improve work experience opportunities.
After an induction in May, the committee will return to Parliament over the next two weeks for a series of oral evidence hearings.
He said: “It is quite an exciting process being in and around Westminster.
“We are treated the same as any other select committee, which means our involvement will actually come to something.
“Hopefully we can adopt a better approach to helping young people gain work experience.”
Dominic is one of 11 committee members from across the country.
He studies A-level politics, sociology and history, and is Member of Youth Parliament for Barnsley.
However, he said a career in politics is not his main motive for wanting to be involved.
Dominic said: “You see how you can make a difference.
“I’m very passionate about equality of opportunity.
“I felt it was my chance to get involved and ensure every child has an opportunity to expand their learning.
“I personally have had a mix of good and bad experiences so I know what it’s like.”
The Youth Select Committee was put together by the British Youth Council.
It has led six enquiries since 2012 on subjects such as lowering the voting age, mental health and discrimination.
