Academics

Shawnigan House of Commons 2021

Grade 10s at Shawnigan Lake School participate in an annual event as part of their social studies classes, the Shawnigan House of Commons (SHOC). A valuable lesson in Canadian politics, this is an opportunity for the students to learn how the parliamentary system works in Canada as they role play as MPs, learning how they represent not only their constituency but also their political party at the House of Commons level.
As a precursor to the event, local MLA Sonia Furstenau, representative for the Cowichan Valley and Leader of the Green Party of BC, visited the students to speak about her role as a Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA). This was an experience that provided an invaluable understanding of politics directly from one of our local leaders!

The social studies teachers have been particularly impressed with the way in which some of this year’s students have gone above and beyond in their preparation for the event. To help in their research for their role as MPs, a few students reached out to the person they would be representing at SHOC. Cole L. had an engaging phone call with his MP and Jackson P. had a personal email exchange – en français! – with his MP from Drummondville, QC.

When the day of SHOC arrived, the “MPs” filed into the House and found their seats. The staff room had successfully been converted into the Shawnigan House of Commons and was abuzz with energy as all participants were eagerly awaiting their opportunity to discuss and work on passing Bill C-36, Freedom of Expression, with a focus on, amongst other things, addressing hate speech online, promoting Canadian content online and limiting protests outside hospitals.

After delegates met with their respective standing committees to discuss and provide amendments, they gathered in their party caucuses to decide on whether or not to support the amendments. Upon returning to the House, there was not a dull moment to be had. Although many amendments were made to the Bill, it ultimately failed in the third reading. With disruptions from “protesters” (some spirited staff members) and call from some MPs for Canada to become a republic after the passing of the monarch, the speaker (Grade 12 student Lucas K.) had his work cut out for him trying to maintain order amongst the MPs, which included a vote of no confidence for the Prime Minister, resulting in the dissolution of parliament. It all added up to this year’s SHOC being one that will be remembered for years to come.

With experiential learning like this at their fingertips, the Grade 10s at Shawnigan are discovering how to make impactful decisions when it is their turn to get involved in the parliamentary process. By providing an interactive and engaging day of learning, the future leaders of our country and the world are well on their way to making a difference in our future.



Shawnigan Lake School is adhering to all COVID-19 guidelines released by the BC Ministries of Health and Education.
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We acknowledge with respect the Coast Salish Peoples on whose traditional lands and waterways we live, learn and play. We are grateful for the opportunity to share in this beautiful region, and we aspire to healthy and respectful relationships with those who have lived on and cared for these lands for millennia.