‘Introduction to School Council’ SVLG Assembly September 2014 ‘Introduction to School Council’

Student Leadership Group Scott Lewis Head Boy Poppy Savage Head Girl Jonathan Davies Deputy Head Boy Sekinat Olatunde Deputy Head Girl Jordan Johnson Senior Captain (Pastoral) Arianna Salamanca-Robins Senior Captain (Curriculum)

What is the school council? A group of pupils who discuss and implement ideas related to whole school life and also teaching and learning. We meet once every half term with Mrs Keane to discuss agenda items relevant to school life. We then act on what has been discussed to improve school life for everybody.

How does YOUR voice get heard? If you have an idea or suggestion and would like to bring it to school council you must speak to your form reps. They will take it to the house council to be discussed and then forward it to the school council. Your house captain will then feed back what has been discussed and keep you up-to-date.

How do I become part of the school council? Step 1: Become a form rep. Nominate yourself to your form tutor, one representative from each year within each TFL. Step2: Voting will then take place for each year group to elect their school council representative. Each year group has 4 school council reps (one from each house).

Being elected... During TFL time next week you will be able to see a list of all the form reps for your year group. The following week EVERYBODY will have one vote to elect the school council representative from you house and year.

The importance of voting Voting in any type of election, from local elections to general election, provides an important way to voice your opinions regarding elected leaders and overall policies; voting also helps you decide your own future by electing a person who might reflect your own views. The ability to vote exists as one of the most cherished Constitutional Rights that many fought for, marched for, and died for over the centuries. By not voting, you give away your right to have an influence. Think of some examples when you have the opportunity to vote and influence a decision???

Democracy! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M1mdzzLc0Uo

Use your vote carefully... Remember to vote for the person who you think will be the best person for the job. Who do you want to represent you?

What are the benefits? To have your ideas discussed at a full meeting with Mrs Keane. Opportunities to develop teaching and learning across the school. Develop suggestions to improve your house/year group. Develop your skills to help your future career path (university, jobs, college, etc).

Changes in the past … Changed the uniform policy Raised money for charity. Extra card machine in the food court Discussed ideas related to teaching and learning to suit your needs in the school. Helped design the different planners for each key stage. Students as researchers – Healthy living SNAG group ordered a frozen yoghurt machine. Met the Bishop to discuss DACW. Converted EMA – Awarded house points. Created a Lit & Num resource pack. Website/Twitter/Logo

This year we want to... Ensure that the voice of EVERY pupil is heard. Develop Twitter/Websites SNAG group work with canteen staff Have an impact on teaching and learning Raise even more money for charity Organise more trips and visits Increase community participation Enhance your wellbeing Make changes through the year to support YOUR education and school experience.

‘make your words speak louder’. Student Voice This year represent your house, use your voice and ….. ‘make your words speak louder’.

Reflection ‘We are all part of society and our school community. Remind us that we can all make a difference to how our community works. Help us to work hard to make a positive contribution and remember how our actions effect everyone around us.’ May your faith support you.