A group of pupils from a school in Bicester have enjoyed a tour of Westminster Palace after taking part in a debating competition.

The Cooper School pupils received their prize after they were victorious in the Cherwell Democracy Challenge back in November.

They explored both chambers of Westminster Palace and the Central Lobby, Royal Gallery and the Robing Room which houses Queen Victoria's throne.

Oxford Mail: The Cooper School debate team at Westminster PalaceThe Cooper School debate team at Westminster Palace (Image: The Cooper School)

Oxford Mail: The Cooper School debate team at Westminster PalaceThe Cooper School debate team at Westminster Palace (Image: The Cooper School)

One member of the winning team, Rebecca, said: "On arrival, we were given a tour of the beautiful palace and it was so interesting to both see and hear the history of the building."

They then met Banbury MP Victoria Prentis and asked questions on what it is like to be a woman in politics and what drew her to the Conservative party as well as discussing university courses, apprenticeships, feminist literature.

Oxford Mail: The Cooper School debate team at Westminster PalaceThe Cooper School debate team at Westminster Palace (Image: The Cooper School)

Rebecca continued: "As a group of four girls, her story was super empowering to hear and gave us motivation to continue to pursue our dreams."

Another student, Lydia, added: "Taking part in the Cherwell democracy challenge for the past two years has been such an amazing experience.

Oxford Mail: The Cooper School debate team at Westminster PalaceThe Cooper School debate team at Westminster Palace (Image: The Cooper School)

"It has really helped to build our confidence and our debating skills while also getting to know new people.

"This was an incredible experience and it was amazing to visit the very chambers where political debates occur."