Schoolchildren questioned councillors about their work before holding a debate of their own.

Members of the school council at Monksmead School, in Hillside Avenue, Borehamwood, were invited to visit Hertsmere Borough Council’s chambers.

They were joined by deputy headteacher Anni Hardwick and teaching assistant Lynda Rawlings.

Lisa Wells, the Mayor’s secretary, introduced them to Mayor of Hertsmere Councillor Carey Keates, who explained how meetings are run as well as his role.

The pupils then held their own meeting to discuss noise and food waste in the school dining room.