Pupil Voice

Pupils are encouraged and facilitated to contribute positively to the life of the school through the Student Council, pupil focus groups and online surveys. The Student Council is an elected body of pupils whose purpose is to represent their year group and to be a forum for active and constructive pupil input into the daily life of the school community.

The purpose of the Student Council is:

• To develop positive attitudes and relationships throughout the whole school

• To improve school morale

• To provide a forum for pupil expression

• To facilitate pupil input into the whole school decision making policy

Objectives of the Student Council are to:

• Provide a democratic forum in which pupils can address school related issues, which affect them

• Maintain open communication between pupils and school staff

Structure

The student body is led by the Pupil Leadership Team, which is made up of pupils in Year 12 who are nominated and appointed after an interview. These are the Head Girl/Boy and the Deputy Head Girls/Boys.

Every year, a number of student councillors are chosen from each year group. They attend monthly meetings to represent their year group and take part in the decision making process in school. 

Function

The student council regularly meet with members of the Senior Leadership Team (SLT), including Mrs Brown, the Principal, to ensure they are involved in all elements of school life.

A chair person and vice chair person are elected. They set an agenda alongside the teacher representative and are responsible for the momentum of the meetings. They focus on four key issues:

• Pupil welfare

• School environment

• Opportunities/experiences

• Consultations

Minutes are taken during every meeting and sent to the Principal and the SLT teacher responsible for the Student Council. Issues that arise are discussed and feedback is provided to the council.

The Pupil Leadership Team

The Pupil Leadership Team allows pupils to play an important and influential role in school, undertaking responsibilities with regard to pupil wellbeing, charity and school events. These opportunities allow the pupils to develop their initiative, teamwork and leadership abilities, as well as problem solving and resilience. 

Pupil Focus Group Surveys

As part of the school’s cycle of self-evaluation and drive for continuous improvement, pupils are invited to give their views on a range of issues including teaching and learning, assessment, school ethos and pastoral care.