A-LEVEL students from Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College swapped Darlington for Washington DC to get an insight into US politics.

The students, who are all studying politics, travelled to Washington to study the American political system first hand.

Fortuitously, the group found themselves visiting the American capital during President Trump’s impeachment trial and watched as US Representative Adam Schiff and Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi entered the Senate to argue their viewpoints.

Following this, students had the opportunity to speak with leaders of high profile pressure groups who work with Congress every day on issues including voting rights, democratic reform and health.

They also toured the Supreme Court, the site of many landmark decisions which have influenced the political, economic and social landscape of the country.

The trip continued with a visit to the new National Museum of African American History and Culture, shopping in the fashionable Georgetown area and a thrilling basketball game attended by thousands of Washingtonians.

Finally, students took time for reflection at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum.

QE student, Jack Houghton, said: "Seeing the American politicians entering the Senate was exhilarating because it was a once in a lifetime experience.

"Nancy Pelosi even offered us a friendly smile."

Fellow student Lucy Pears added: "I thoroughly enjoyed the trip.

"Learning about segregation in the National Museum of African American History and Culture helped me to understand the topic in a completely new way."