After an initial thought period for the council had to proceed within the first school term. Forms were sent out to all tutors for them to vote for two reps who would become part of house council system and whose names would be put forward for the whole-school student council elections. Once completed and names had been received for one boy/one girl, a meeting was then held for all form reps to discuss election campaigns prior to election day.

On election day well-equipped booths, ballot boxes and signs were all set up to add a professional feel to the day. A system of yearly voting then occurred for the whole school getting through every student within four periods in the school day. Each pupil was instructed, in the queuing system, to vote for the rep (in their house and year) who they thought would best represent them on the council. The day was extremely successful with every student voting with results being announced to the reps within the final period of the day with a view to presenting those elected with badges and certificates in school assemblies.

The first student council meeting has recently taken place and was a great success, with an excellent turn out. The agenda was arranged from issues raised in forms but prior to the meeting a training session was organised by myself, to instruct students on how to conduct themselves in a respectful council environment. A pack was given to each student on council procedures, aims, how to write minutes, and the structure of the overall council system. Also, the budget was discussed and in a democratic style a chairperson, treasurer and secretary were elected from within the group.

Within the meeting itself, a school secretary took the minutes and Mrs Dalkin was present on behalf of the school management. Issues discussed can be read in the meeting minutes. Future issues up for discussion are the sixth form and pupil behaviour. As a direct result of the first meeting action has already occurred to tidy up the wall arrangement on the Science corridor highlighting the effect of the council immediately.
For the future, there are many visions for the council, including pursuing sponsorships from local industries for each house, working alongside the careers department, creating a well known a wide reaching student council that has the respect of the whole-school and wider community, creating excellent links with the staff, governors and beyond. The limits are endless and the aim is for all students to see value in such a representative institution, with the council. s status, elections and aims growing in professionalism each term.

Thank you, Mr Leary