Our first week back at school got off to a lively start with an assembly from NHEHS alumna and MP for Ealing Central and Acton Dr Rupq Huq.

Speaking to our Senior School, Dr Huq provided a fascinating “behind-the-scenes” look at the reality of life in Westminster, describing her role as “the best job in the world,” while also highlighting the dedication required to serve the community.

While students recognised the boisterous and combative nature of Prime Minister’s Questions from the news, Dr Huq was quick to explain that the “theatre and odd rituals” of the chamber are only a small part of the story.

She described a career that involves 24/7 commitment, including:

• Pounding the pavements: Meeting constituents and holding local advice surgeries.
• National campaigning: Leading cross-party efforts, such as the campaign to remain in the EU or protecting the A&E department at Ealing Hospital.
• A public platform: Using her voice in the media, from writing for The Observer to appearing on BBC TV.

Dr Huq also noted a positive shift in the landscape of British politics, sharing that the number of female MPs has now reached an all-time high of 40%.

When asked by one of our Year 7s why she first entered politics, Dr Huq traced her passion back to the 1987 election at a time when former Labour leader Neil Kinnock lived in Ealing. She remembered watching the news intently and making her own notes on party manifestos before eventually joining the Labour Students society at Cambridge University.

Dr Huq also remarked how politics can be a brutal business, warning “you can be here one day and gone the next.”  Before becoming an MP, Dr Huq explained how she had been a university lecturer. She encouraged students not to rush into becoming “career politicians,” but rather to focus on their education and gain professional experience first.

A big thank you to Dr Huq for taking the time to share such valuable insights with our students.