Politics students visit FCDO
Last month, I joined a number of other Year 12 Politics students on a very special visit to the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. Our tour was led by Ronnie Guha, an Old Wilsonian, former School Captain, and currently an economist at the FCDO on his placement year.
We began our tour in the main FCDO building on King Charles Street, a striking piece of Victorian architecture. Ronnie explained how it originally housed several departments, including the Foreign Office and the India Office, and remains a key part of the UK's diplomatic presence today. The building’s interior was just as beautiful as its exterior - opulent in design with grand staircases, high ceilings, and long corridors that reflect the FCDO’s historic role in international affairs.
One of the highlights was stepping inside the Locarno Suite, a formal reception space still used for major diplomatic meetings and official events. With its tall windows and decorative chandeliers, the room offered a clear sense of the formality and prestige that surrounds diplomacy at the highest level. We also passed through the Durbar Court, once part of the India Office, which now serves as a central space for official gatherings. Its glass roof and marble floors made it one of the most impressive buildings in the FCDO.
Perhaps the most surreal moment was standing just outside the office of the current Foreign Secretary, David Lammy. While we weren’t able to go in, it was fascinating to be so close to the room where key decisions in UK foreign policy are made. Just a short walk away, we also caught sight of 10 Downing Street from behind the gates - a brief but memorable glimpse at one of the most iconic landmarks in Britain.
Throughout the visit, Ronnie spoke about his own experience as an economist in the department, offering us insight into the kind of analytical work that goes on behind the scenes. The visit gave us a much clearer picture of how UK foreign policy is shaped, and it was a valuable experience to see this part of government in action. We’re very grateful to Ronnie for taking the time to guide us around and for sharing his experience so openly - it made the afternoon both informative and memorable. It was a fascinating afternoon and a great opportunity to see part of the political world up close.
Article written by Zeph (Year 12)