School Council

At Southtown Primary School, we are proud to have children elected each year, by their peers, to become School Councillors and to make a difference to our school.

Why have a school council?

There are lots of reasons.

Article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) says that children and young people should have a say in decisions that affect their lives.

A school council can provide a meaningful way in which pupils can voice their opinions and have their views taken into account in decisions which impact upon them.

Evidence shows that a school council that is supported and nurtured helps to improve many aspects of school life.

It is an important and useful way for schools to provide leadership and development opportunities for their pupils.  

Within the school curriculum we encourage active participation.  Our curriculum requires that young people are provided with opportunities to participate in school and society. School councils are an excellent way in which to increase participation, teaching young people about democracy, local and global citizenship and accountability.

What makes a good School Councillor?

Good problem solving skills

Confident speaking skills and excellent listening skills

Enjoys teamwork

Has an open mind to new ideas

Is responsible & a good role model

Works hard to get things done

Organisation

We have 2 representatives from each class, from Year 1 through to Year 6.

An agenda is organised by Miss Alp in collaberation with the Headteacher and school staff.

Minutes are recorded by the children and fed back to their classes.

Representatives take ideas and suggestions from their class, and bring these back to discuss at school council meetings.

They can vote on actions which need to be taken.