Sixth form pupils were given the opportunity to meet with the US Ambassador during President Obama’s visit to the country.

The pupils at Hertswood Academy, in Borehamwood, met with Matthew Barzun who was an early supporter of Obama and worked with him on his first campaign in 2008.

After his victory, President Obama asked Mr Barzun to become the ambassador to Sweden and in 2013 he was asked to take on the role in the UK.

On arrival Mr Barzun had a short meeting with Peter Gillett, head teacher, and Mollie and Bradley the academy’s head boy and girl.

Students were given voting devices to participate in an interactive workshop in the Ark Theatre.

The Ambassador asked a series of questions about their views on the USA whether they had been there, would they like to go there and their opinions on health care and foreign policy.

Mr Gillett said: “There was a real buzz in the air and lots of discussion as the students decided which button to press.

“We were extremely impressed by the level of questions put to Mr Barzun by our students, their knowledge of current world issues and the ideas they had to improve the world we all live in.

“It was a great honour to have Mr Barzun and the Embassy staff visit for our Academy.

“Most importantly, the views of our students and their contribution to this event were raised personally by the Ambassador in discussions with President Obama when he visits the UK at the week.”

The students were also asked to fill out a card and Mr Barzun asked them to share what hopes and concerns they had about the USA.

This led to an open discussion where the Ambassador explained some of the problems facing America both domestic, foreign and global.