Abena Launches 2026 Campaign Summer School for Young People
This July, Abena Oppong-Asare, MP for Erith and Thamesmead, announces she will once again be hosting her fifth Campaign Summer School, and encourages young people interested in making a difference in their community to sign up now.
Taking place from Tuesday 21st July to Thursday 23rd July 2026, the school is designed to empower and inspire young people between the ages of 16 and 18 from the local area to engage in politics and campaigning.
The Campaign Summer School offers first-hand insight into the exciting world of political campaigning – bringing together the expertise of veteran political activists, local and national journalists, and partner organisations.
This year will be the MP’s fifth Campaign Summer School following her most successful ever last year with close to 30 local students joining.
Following her 2025 session, she was delighted to launch her Campaign Summer School Alumni Network on LinkedIn to keep the students connected and to also welcome the students for a tour of 10 Downing Street and the Houses of Parliament.
At this jam-packed 3-day event, young people will have the opportunity to gain the skills and knowledge needed to make a real difference within their community and learn how to make their voice heard in our democracy.
The Summer School programme is expected to include sessions from:
- Councillor Anthony Okereke, Leader of Greenwich Council
- Christine Quigley, Vice President of Crestview Strategy
- Yeukai Taruvinga, Chief Executive of Active Horizons
- Google Digital Garage Team
- Local and National journalists
Applications are now open for those interested in signing up. The link can be found on Abena’s website here and the deadline to sign up is Friday 29 May 2026.
Abena Oppong-Asare MP said:
“I’m determined to do everything I can to empower local young people to be the change they want to see in the world.
“That’s why I’m proud to announce the return of my Campaign Summer School this July, building on the record-breaking success of last year’s programme. Our 2025 event was our biggest yet, welcoming nearly 30 young people and a fantastic lineup of inspiring speakers.
“If you’re aged 16–18 and live locally, I’d love you to apply and get involved. See you there!”
Testimonies from 2025 Campaign Summer School alumni:
One 2025 graduate said: “I am hugely grateful for the experience as I gained political insight through learning about the role of an MP. It has also allowed me to create a larger network of other determined, driven and ambitious individuals.”
Another said: “This experience deepened my understanding of local and national politics, media, and activism and reminded me that youth is not a limitation, but a leadership asset.”
And one more said: “Over [these] packed days, I gained valuable insight into politics, communication, leadership and most importantly, the power of young people.”
Photos from Past Summer Schools:
