Last call to register for Kids Voting

Auckland students can still sign up to vote in mock local elections in September, shadowing the region's upcoming local elections.

Nearly 9,000 students from more than 35 schools are already registered for classroom-based elections as part of Kids Voting 2016 – an Auckland Council programme for students in years 7 to 10 (11 to 15 year olds) to learn about local democracy and why it’s important to vote.

Teachers can sign up to the programme before 1 August. Classroom activities kick off in mid-August to capture the pre-election build-up.

The programme gives learners the chance to consider real candidates and issues in their local areas, so they are confident enough to discuss them with friends and family, and be well-informed when they cast their mock votes.

“With elections coming up, there’s no better way for young Aucklanders to participate, and Kids Voting provides a fun and authentic experience,” says Auckland Council Manager Democracy Services Marguerite Delbet.

“The Kids Voting results are announced at the same time as the official election result on 13 October. Unlike the real election, students get to cast their votes online, a first for New Zealand and currently the only online local government election in the country."

Epsom Girls’ Grammar School has taken part in Kids Voting since 2004.

Social Studies head of department Pauline Farra says: “We are convinced that it’s an effective way to introduce students to voting and it allows a practical and real experience."

“We hope that, as a result, our students will be more informed as future voters."

“There is also a spin-off in terms of their parents. We encourage the students to talk with their parents and caregivers about voting, so that they can be ready to vote in the real election too.”

Papatoetoe Intermediate School has been involved since 2007.

“The whole school takes part,” says teacher Chris Coomes. “There's a real buzz on the day. We promote it as a ‘practice’ vote, not a pretend vote. Students are practising being voters at this age, so that when they turn 18 they will be able to participate fully as citizens."

To register or learn more contact Kids.Voting@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

ENDS

© Scoop Media