NORTHWICH A-level students have been urged to take part in a video campaign highlighting the issue of ‘fake news’.

The Political Studies Association (PSA)’s Schools’ Video Competition, sponsored by YouGov, is open to post-16 students who will be studying during the academic year 2017-18.

The PSA has an international membership of more than 1900 teachers, politics professors, lecturers and researchers, and has been working since 1950 to develop and promote the study of politics.

This year’s competition asks students to explore the question: Fake News: Is this the end of facts?

Groups of students are invited to submit short videos on fake news, which has been popularised by American president Donald Trump, what effect it may be having on the political landscape and what it means for expert opinion and ‘factual’ knowledge.

Mike Amesbury, MP for Weaver Vale, is encouraging A-level students in his constituency to take part in this year’s competition.

He said: “The concept of fake news is in the public eye now more than ever, and seeing the take that our young people have on the subject will be fascinating.

“We cannot undervalue the importance of engaging young people in politics. I’d encourage all local A-level students to take part in this competition and submit their ideas and videos.”

Shortlisted groups will be invited to Speaker’s House in the Palace of Westminster to discuss the ideas raised in their video with a panel of politicians, journalists and academics.

The winners will receive their award at the PSA’s Annual Awards Ceremony in Westminster on December 5. The winning students get a week’s work experience with the YouGov political team during their school holidays.

For more information visit psa.ac.uk