Pupils from Ark Putney Academy had a once in a lifetime opportunity to rub shoulders with the President of the United States when they attended a town hall meeting last Saturday.

Five sixth form pupils were part of Barack Obama's final presidential visit to the UK. 

Wandsworth Times:

They were chosen following a visit from the American ambassador Matthew Burzin, who was so impressed by their questions and passions for global politics, he invited them to meet President Obama. 

Maia Drummond, William Iheji, Rosalee Henry, Xavier Bailey and Francini Nuernberg all had the chance to hear Obama speak and then deliver an extended question and answer session with a range of young people from schools and universities all over the country.

The pupils all agreed they came away feeling truly inspired and energised by his words.

Francini, who was also interviewed by Reuters immediately after the speech, said: "It was an honour to meet him. Obama really encouraged us to fight for the things we believe in to create change in the world."

Wandsworth Times:

Edward Davison, Deputy Head of sixth form at the academy said: "It would be fair to say that this really was a once in a lifetime opportunity for the students and an incredibly proud moment for Ark Putney Academy. 

"Let’s hope some of the inspiration rubs off on all of us."