Pupils from primary and secondary schools from the Bradford Diocesan Academies Trust (BDAT) gathered at Bradford City Hall for the trust’s annual Student Parliament, the Telegraph & Argus has reported.
The pupils questioned civic and community leaders on topics including community safety, mental health and youth opportunities at the 'Community and Unity’-themed event.
They put questions to a panel the included representatives from West Yorkshire Police, the Education Alliance for Life Chances, Born in Bradford, the Science and Media Museum and the Lord-Lieutenancy.
Issues raised by the pupils included how to make Bradford safer for young people, how to secure more funding for youth clubs, ways to improve mental health support and how to encourage young people to vote. They also suggested practical solutions, including more volunteering opportunities, community litter picks, expanded youth activities and green spaces, road safety initiatives and increased environmental education.
Following the event, the pupils developed action plans to help shape future collaboration between BDAT and community partners.
BDAT’s head of student enrichment Jonathan Kennedy said: "Student Parliament is about much more than giving young people a platform to speak – it's about making sure they know their voices matter and that they can help shape the communities they live in.
"Our pupils asked thoughtful, challenging questions about issues including community safety, inclusion, the environment and opportunities for young people, and it was fantastic to see them engaging so confidently with leaders from across Bradford.
"Their ideas demonstrated just how passionate they are about making a positive difference in their city."
Kennedy added: "This isn't the end of the conversation. We'll now build on the ideas shared during the day, working with our schools and community partners to explore how we can turn pupils' suggestions into meaningful action.
"Developing confident, compassionate young leaders is at the heart of what we do at BDAT, and events like Student Parliament show just how much young people can contribute when they're given the opportunity to be heard."