Growing up, I was more into watching Top of the Pops than Newsnight.

East Devon MP, Simon Jupp writes for this title.

I juggled my studies with working in a supermarket and volunteering at a local radio station at the weekends. An eclectic taste ranging from country to classical music – with a fair bit of cheese thrown in – was a passion that led to a career in local radio which started when I was still at college.

If you’d have asked me to name the local MP during that time, I probably couldn’t have told you. The strange and formal customs of Westminster felt distant from my teenage years.

I never had the opportunity to visit Parliament growing up. I’ve come to realise that’s something of a shame. Such visits can be the spark that ignites interest in the political world for many young people (not all though, admittedly).

I always encourage schools in East Devon to come for a tour of Parliament and Q&A. It is so important to learn about the home and history of our democracy. I’ve welcomed pupils from Broadclyst Community Primary School, The Beacon Primary School Exmouth, and Colyton Grammar School in recent weeks. I've been quizzed on everything from the East Devon Local Plan to footballers’ pay! To be fair, neither are particularly defendable.

I know parliamentary jobs working for an MP can appear like something of a closed shop. I want to break down those barriers. Anyone who wants to experience working in politics should get that opportunity. It's why I offer regular work experience placements. Students split their time in the week between Parliament and my office in East Devon – as I do. They get to attend Select Committee hearings and debates and see how my small team support my work as your MP.

If you’re a student over sixteen interested in work experience, please do get in touch. Given the week is split in two locations, travel expenses are covered.

Politics shouldn't be cut off from young people. I'm looking forward to welcoming more local school groups to Parliament and offering more work experience placements.