Student Council

An effective student council structure, which involves the whole school, offers huge benefits to both the community and the individual – here are just a few:

• Pupil councils provide a basis for active learning of important life skills, such as speaking and listening skills, teamwork, emotional literacy, problem-solving, moral reasoning skills, self-esteem and self-confidence.
• Pupil council experiences provide a dynamic foundation for learning about citizenship.
• Young people and children acquire skills which help them to become resilient to negative experiences.
• School and class councils enable pupils to have a voice and to understand that their opinions count.

What does an effective student council look like?

All pupils have the opportunity to be involved in the Student Council:

• It is pupil-led
• It is part of the school’s ethos and practice
• It deals with the core issues of the school
• It makes a difference

What are the benefits of an effective Student Council?

• Improved relationships between pupils
• Pupils have pride in themselves and their school
• Pleasant and equitable school ethos
• Improved physical environment
• Responsible behaviour

Please note, to enable this to happen, there has to be full and active support from the Headteacher and the SLT. Integration of pupil participation into the decision-making structures of the school. This should include all aspects of school life, including teaching and learning, not just the physical environment and organising events.

Our council's progress so far:

• The school council is established and runs termly by Nick Riggs. One pupil from each class attends; minutes are forwarded to the SLT to be actioned.
• Pupils actively participate in interviewing prospective employees joining the school.
• School representatives attend international student council meetings at WISE.

What is next for the Student Council:

• To develop the established work that has been undertaken to embed the student council, within the school and develop into the Residential Provision.
• To embed a student council within the residential setting. Ensure that minutes are taken and that the students see actions regarding their council.
• To participate in joint ventures with the school’s council.

HEY Pupil Voice

In addition to the Student Council, the school participates in the HEY Student Voice Project. Which consists of 4 in-person meetings and 4 virtual meeting focusing on careers education and work experience (to align with the new guidance from DfE).