In a surprising display of relatability, Prime Minister Keir Starmer has shown his human side during a school visit where he enthusiastically joined children in a viral TikTok trend, only to be gently told off by a teacher.
The Classroom Moment That Changed Perceptions
During his Monday visit to Welland Primary School in Peterborough, the Prime Minister demonstrated an unexpected comfort with contemporary youth culture. Sitting at a low table with pupils, Starmer recognised and participated in the viral "6-7" TikTok meme - a call-and-response trend originating from a song by Skrilla about a basketball player's height that has evolved to mean "I don't know."
The moment captured on video shows Starmer performing the accompanying juggling hand gesture with apparent familiarity, connecting instantly with the children in a way that few would have anticipated from the typically reserved politician.
A Rare Glimpse of Playful Leadership
The teacher accompanying Starmer appeared amused by the Prime Minister's participation, noting that children usually "get into trouble" for doing the "6-7" trend during class. Starmer offered a moment of contrition with a genuine "Sorry about that," before subverting the typically British exchange by protesting: "I didn't start it, Miss."
This interaction revealed a side of Starmer that has been largely absent from public view during his time as Prime Minister - displaying charm, mischief and humour that political commentators have noted is often missing from his public appearances.
School Visits: Political Minefield or Opportunity?
School visits have historically presented risks for politicians, with several predecessors experiencing awkward moments. David Cameron was famously photographed reading with a girl who had her head on the table, while Boris Johnson once posed in front of children's books with unfortunate titles including The Twits and Betrayed.
Gordon Brown narrowly avoided embarrassment when a pupil asked him what 13 squared was, though he fortunately knew the correct answer. Against this backdrop of potential pitfalls, Starmer's visit stood out for its genuine connection and lack of awkwardness.
The Official Message and Unintended Consequences
The official purpose of the visit with Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson was to promote the extension of free school meals for all children in families on universal credit - a policy that will benefit 500,000 more children starting next September.
However, the unintended message proved equally powerful: the Prime Minister can be a decent, affable and mildly humorous human being beneath his professional political exterior. Observers noted the refreshing dynamic between Starmer and Phillipson, who appeared genuinely comfortable and relaxed in each other's company during the childish antics.
As Starmer faces relentlessly negative estimation from journalists and public opinion, this school visit demonstrated that the often-perceived bureaucratic figure can indeed connect with ordinary people - even if that means getting playfully told off by a teacher for joining in the latest youth trend.
