The next generation of Bermudian politicians were vying for attention in CedarBridge Academy's own election day yesterday.

Leaders of the school's three `political' parties lobbied students with vigour that would even be the envy of the victorious Progressive Labour Party candidates who romped into power as Bermuda's government last Monday.

Jonakia Bean, the leader of the Making it Work party, Kenniffe Reid of The Success Party, and Masante Maryam of the Making A Difference party compelled students to vote at the ballot boxes.

Each of the candidates articulated their vision for the school -- and the ambitious three also revealed they had their own lofty dreams.

Miss Bean said after her June graduation she hoped to attend Bermuda College and then study business administration abroad.

Mr. Reid said he planned to become a teacher and Miss Maryam is determined to be a lawyer.

In the shadow of posters trumpeting each of the party's election promises, teacher Joanne Anderson said student government was a valuable tool to encourage pride and involvement in the school.

Ms Anderson said the eight members of the party which won the most votes yesterday would form the executive of the school government, but a selection of members from the defeated parties would form a "sort of Opposition''.

She said: "The government will give the students a real voice and help with decisions that affect students.'' "It means students can help us deal with issues they're concerned about like violence, their uniform, planned activities, dances and drugs.

"Obviously there is a limit to what they can tackle but the system does show students are truly valued at CedarBridge.'' She said the election was run in a similar way to Bermuda's General Election with the 975 students choosing whether to cast their vote.

The winning party will be announced at 9 a.m. tomorrow.