A course on political literacy has been introduced at a Stanmore school in the wake of the EU referendum.

Bentley Wood High School, on Bridges Road, is one of three schools to offer the AQA Political Literacy course to its students.

“Understanding politics is key to understanding how society works,” said Bentley Wood teacher Roisin Murray.

“I can honestly say it has been a fantastic opportunity for our students to develop their knowledge and awareness of current affairs as well as their ability to speak in public, debate and present a discussion coherently.”

The programme of study includes classes on British politics and international relations, and aims to get young people more engaged in political issues.

Online news network Shout Out UK is behind the course.

Founder Matteo Bergamini believes the public should be better informed if it is to make major decisions such as that provided by the EU referendum.

“Currently, we assume that once we hit 18 years of age we suddenly become enlightened with all the political knowledge one needs to vote and engage,” he said.

“Of course this not the case - it needs to be taught and understood in school as a compulsory subject. We treat English and Maths in very high regard, however the one subject that allows us to be who we want to be, gives us a voice and creates a society we wish to live in, we give no time to in schools.

“The issue is that political literacy would give us, the next generation, a clear understanding of what politics is, how our society works and why voting is relevant and important.”