Sixth Former Standing in Local Election

Ahead of the local elections on Thursday 1 May, we sat down to talk to one of our own students that will be standing for election in his local constituency. Patrick Cousins is currently studying A Level Politics, German and Economics and will be sitting his exams this summer. If elected, Patrick will be the youngest elected councillor in the country! We are extremely proud of Patrick and all that he has done to contribute to our school community during his time at Sheldon. 

Please introduce yourself and why you are standing in the local election.

My name is Patrick Cousins and I'm standing as the candidate for Chippenham Sheldon for both Chippenham Town and Wiltshire Council. I'm standing with the local Conservatives and there are 4 other candidates from the Liberal Democrats, Labour, Reform and Green Party. Local elections are all about what you can bring to your local community and as I live in the Ward, it seemed the perfect opportunity to do this. I prefer doing rather than saying, so when I was asked if I would stand, it was a no-brainer.

How has your time at Sheldon and Sheldon Sixth Form prepared you for your future ambitions?

Sheldon Sixth Form, in my view, is all about taking up new opportunities. I'm not entirely sure what I want to do or where I want to be in the future, but my time at Sheldon has given me an attitude of open-mindedness and being the best you. The extra-curricular activities in particular have been great, such as the EPQ where I considered the economic benefits of the illicit drug trade or Gold DofE which involved lots of team work during the expedition in the Brecon Beacons.

What experiences outside of the classroom helped shape your interest in local politics?

I've always been interested in politics as it influences our day-to-day lives. Local politics is the stuff that really matters to people, such as roads, pavements, libraries, leisure centres and so on. Helping people in the community is the crux of the job. I was a campaigner for Nic Puntis, the Conservative parliamentary candidate for Chippenham, during the 2024 General Election. I also co-chaired the Sheldon Hustings.

Why do you think it is important for young people to be represented in Chippenham Town Council?

Typically, younger people and their views are underrepresented in the political system. Our views are no less important than the views of others, hence this also being an important part of my candidacy. If elected, I will be the youngest councillor elected in the country. Whilst Chippenham Town Council is increasingly diverse regarding age, it would be a privilege to add to this if elected!

What do you think are the most important issues for young people in Chippenham?

Ensuring a range of opportunities is a priority for Chippenham's youth. This is coming from both fellow students and parents on the doorstep. It's very important that young people have facilities and activities to get engaged with outside of school, as opposed to getting involved with Anti-Social Behaviour. This ranges from leisure and sport, as well as employment opportunities--hence why having a repurposed town centre for the future is vital.

Do you think there are any misconceptions of young people?

It's easy to understand why the older generations perceive younger people as lazy. Youth unemployment is relatively high and attitudes have changed since their childhoods. However, these are misconceptions in my view, as young people just want to be hard-working and fulfil their ambitions. Therefore, it's important this is properly facilitated for (e.g. good local services)

What advice would you give younger students about getting involved in politics?

I'd urge younger students to inform themselves. Understandably, young people may think it simply doesn't affect them, but all sorts of political decisions are very consequential to them. There are many ways to get involved: voting, emailing your MP/Councillor, getting involved with pressure groups or signing a petition. One of my favourite quotes is 'If you don't do politics, politics will do you'

How are you balancing campaigning, volunteering, studying for exams?

It's certainly a lot to balance, but it's enjoyable. With whatever I'm doing, I make sure I'm fully focussed on the current task and ensure it's done properly. My first exam, German speaking, is 5 days after polling day, so I will undoubtedly be very busy!

What do you hope to do next after  Sheldon Sixth Form?

After Sixth Form I'm intending to go to university to study politics and economics at Bath. However, this will depend on whether I'm elected. If I am I will defer for at least 1 year to get to grips with the job. I'm not sure what I want to do for work, but I know I want to continue taking up opportunities and hopefully continue helping people.