The Speaker of the House of Commons, Sir Lindsay Hoyle, joined students from four Stoke-on-Trent schools in an event giving young people a taste of politics. 

As part of the city's Centenary programme, the Schools Debate challenged students to step into the shoes of MPs to debate a range of issues. 

Eight teams tackled realistic debate topics with a Question Time style event taking place in the afternoon. 

Teams came from St Thomas More Catholic Academy, Ormiston Horizon Academy, Haywood High School and Discovery Academy. 

Students from the City of Stoke-on-Trent Sixth Form College also supported the event. 

The winning team was 'The Architects' from Discovery Academy (image via Stoke-on-Trent City Council)

Sir Lindsay Hoyle chaired the final debate in the Council Chamber.

At the end of the debate students cast secret ballots to choose the team that had most persuaded them with their arguments. 

The final decision was based 40 per cent on the vote, with the remaining 60 per cent scored by the three judges. 

The winning team was 'The Architects' from Discovery Academy, the proposers of 'This House believes that under 16s should not have access to social media sites' whose arguments and teamwork impressed the students and judges. 

All of the students who took part were praised for their creativity and engagement. 

Cllr Steve Watkins, Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent, said: "The Schools Debate is a brilliant way to give young people a real understanding of how politics works. 

"The creativity, insight and enthusiasm they showed is inspiring, and it gives us real confidence that Stoke-on-Trent – and the country's - future is in very capable hands." 

Cllr Steve Watkins said 'The creativity, insight and enthusiasm they showed is inspiring' (image via Stoke-on-Trent City Council)

Gareth Snell said: "It's been an absolutely brilliant day. Seeing so many young people filling the Council Chamber, arguing their case and holding politicians to account has been a powerful reminder of why democracy really matters. 

"If we want a strong and healthy democracy in the future, we have to start by engaging young people today.   

"Events like this build confidence, strengthen critical thinking and show students that their opinions matter. Democracy only works if people believe their voice counts."  

Mr Speaker praised the students' conduct and enthusiasm. 

He said: "I was delighted to be in Stoke on Trent today during UK Parliament week and in the 100th anniversary year of the city. 

"I have been so impressed by the young people, by their debating skills, the way they talk to each other to get their points across, and how quickly they understand and take part in votes.   

"Whether they go on to pursue a career in politics or not, these are skills that are transferable into the workplace. 

"Their enthusiasm, respect for each other and interest in what's going on reassures me that democracy is in safe hands.   

"I'll be taking a bit of that magic back with me to the House of Commons."