AN Andover school got into the spirit of the election with its own mock ballot.

In the weeks leading up to the General Election, students in each year group at John Hanson Community School learnt about the importance of voting through the assembly programme and their PSHE lessons.

Anna Robinson, assistant headteacher, said: “This culminated in JHCS taking part in a mock election. "Ballot boxes were painted and polling station signs erected, making the space as realistic as an actual vote so the students could truly experience what their older siblings, parents and grandparents would on such a momentous day” Students were also encouraged to discuss the different parties at home and encourage their family members to use their vote.

Anna Robinson led the assemblies with teachers acting as each of the five main parties to share their educational policies. Students were also encouraged to discuss the different parties at home and encourage their family members to use their vote.

Students then had the opportunity to vote at break times for their favoured party.

Once the votes were all counted, the Green Party were the winners with 31 per cent of the votes placed, closely followed by the Conservatives with 25 per cent.