The opportunity to combine academic learning with real-world political experience is incredibly rewarding. While balancing my studies with my role as an elected councillor is demanding, it does not feel like a burden, as I am engaged in work that I am passionate about.
Jamie McGuire
10 February 2025
Paving a path to Parliament by learning from those at the heart of Government
Jamie McGuire, who is juggling being an elected councillor with postgraduate studies at King’s, shares how he hopes the combination of knowledge, experience and insights gained on his course will lead to him one day standing for the UK Parliament.
At the age of 22, Jamie McGuire was elected as the Councillor for Renfrew North and Braehead in Renfrewshire, Scotland. But this was not the first time he had been involved in politics. At Glasgow University, where he earned a first-class honours degree, he was Chair of the Glasgow University Labour Club and Secretary of both the Scottish Labour Students and Scottish Young Labour.
He was also part of the Labour Parliamentary Research Academy, worked as a parliamentary assistant to a Member of the Scottish Parliament and was a researcher for an MP in Westminster.
Even with this experience, he felt he wanted to improve further his political knowledge and experience, so he signed up for the Government Studies MA run by the Strand Group in the Faculty of Social Science & Public Policy at King’s.
Despite the long commute from Scotland to London each week, he said the course has been well worth it.
He said he was drawn to the course to gain a deeper understanding of British politics, particularly the practical workings of government beyond theoretical frameworks. He believes it is essential to learn from history and past policy implementation to develop effective and informed approaches to governance.
Before starting his MA, he anticipated it would be intellectually rigorous and demanding, but he has been surprised by the quality of guest speakers who have shared knowledge and insights with students.
What has truly exceeded my expectations is the calibre of guest speakers. The opportunity to engage directly with policymakers, MPs, and individuals who have played key roles in significant political decisions has been invaluable.
Jamie McGuire
Recent speakers have included: Jeremy Hunt (Chancellor 2022 to 2024), Simon Case (Cabinet Secretary 2020-24), Baroness Jay of Paddington (Leader of the House of Lords 1998 – 2001), Professor Ed Balls (Shadow Chancellor 2011-15), Sir Dave Ramsden (Deputy Governor of the Bank of England), Munira Mirza (Head of the Number 10 Policy Unit from 2019-2022), Baroness Anji Hunter (Tony Blair’s Head of Government Relations 1997-01), Sir Michael Barber (Head of the Delivery Unit 2001-2005, Sir Keir Starmer’s current adviser on effective delivery) Baroness Kate Fall (Deputy Chief of Staff for David Cameron 2010-15) and David Gauke (Lord Chancellor 2018-19). Students have also had the opportunity to visit the Houses of Parliament in Westminster and the Guildhall in the City of London.
Jamie said he has had “outstanding” support by lecturers on the course who have enhanced his experience through their guidance and expertise. He has also appreciated the networking opportunities, which he said are unparalleled through offering direct access to influential figures within the political sphere.
He said the course is equipping him with the knowledge and experience necessary to further his career in politics. He hopes to stand for the UK Parliament in the future and is also currently in the process of applying for a PhD, as he is eager to continue his academic development alongside his political career.
His advice to any prospective students is simple.
To anyone considering this course, I would strongly encourage them to enrol. If you are serious about a career in politics, there is no comparable programme in terms of academic quality, practical insight, and professional opportunities. You will only regret not taking the opportunity.
Jamie McGuire