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 student 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 students can address school related issues, which affect them

• Maintain open communication between students and school staff

Structure

The student body is led by the Pupil Leadership Team, which is made up of students in Year 12 who are elected as a result of a school vote and an interview. These are the Head Girl/Boy and the Deputy Head Girls/Boys.

Following elections, every year, a number councillors are elected from each year group. The councillors attend monthly meetings. The councillor’s role is to represent their year group and take part in the decision making process in school. They then feedback to the year group during assemblies.

Function

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

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 Student Council is frequently asked by the Principal, teachers and other agencies such as DENI, to participate in consultations.

The Student Council places information on social media and also provides feedback to the Board of Governors at the end of the year.

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 boys 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. Pupils' views inform the School Development Plan.