When I first entered the Houses of Parliament, I was greeted by Claire's communications officer, Jack, and we walked up to Claire's office where I met her policy researcher, Matt.
My first task of the day was to sort through the mail, and it was fascinating to see the range of issues brought up in letters to Claire from local residents and businesses.
We then walked through the Parliamentary estate to go and watch Prime Minister's Questions, which was so exciting to be able to see in person.
Afterwards, we picked up some lunch and I looked through the different styles of speeches used by a range of people. I found it very interesting seeing how speeches are written and delivered in Parliament with the aim of engaging a variety of different audiences.
When I met Claire later in the afternoon, she spoke about what it was like to be an MP and what kind of things she gets up to on a day to day basis.
Shortly after, I joined a team call where Claire's staff discussed the agenda and items which needed to be brought to Claire's attention. Again, it was so interesting to hear about the range of tasks that are covered in Westminster and the constituency, and how they are connected to each other.
The next day, I looked at some casework with Jack, and I helped to answer some questions that constituents had concerns on.
I then began to draft a list of all the things that Claire has got up to, campaigned on, and achieved this year. It was quite eye-opening to put together everything that's taken place in just one year.
At the end of my last day, I went on a tour of Parliament with Jack and Matt, where I got to see the history of the Palace of Westminster and the significance of different parts of the architecture. This was truly a magical experience.
I would like to thank Claire, Jack and Matt for making me feel so welcome and giving me an insight into their jobs. I really appreciate the time that they took to answer my questions and show me around. It was such an enjoyable two days.
