School Council

The School Council is an important part of school life at Thomas Arnold Primary School. Elections are held annually, in a democratic manner, and the representatives pledge to attend School Council meetings in order to contribute to the improvement of the school.

The school council is an ideal opportunity for pupils to get more involved in the way the school functions. We actively seek pupils’ views on the current provision (educational, and environmental) and are open to their suggestions for improvements and future developments. Pupils are able to discuss issues they wish to raise, and debate the impact of any decisions we may make together.

The school council benefits the whole school, pupils and teachers, because it provides opportunities for pupils to communicate their views as well as influence decisions that are made within school.

Councillors develop skills such as confidence, communication and negotiation. It is the responsibility of each councillor to ensure that they express the views of all the other pupils they represent.

Membership of school council?

Anyone can be a member; It is not a decision made by staff, but is a decision made through a democratic vote of the pupils. We have a school council with boys and girls, representing their fellow pupils from each class in year 1 to year 6, and the ARP.

Each councillor is elected by their classmates at the beginning of the school year, after a short presentation explaining why they are the most appropriate candidate for selection. This develops pupils’ understanding of one of the key British Values: democracy; the process develops an understanding that with democracy comes responsibility.

Key skills required to be an effective councillor:

A good listener
Strong communication skills
A team player.
Curiosity to learn more about the school.
Keen to contribute to improving the school.
Able to represent the views of others.
Willing to give up some of your own time to this post.
Has lots of good ideas
A good role model to others in terms of behaviour, attendance, punctuality and has a positive learning attitude.

The Role of a School Councillor:

Take part in discussions and votes
Feedback any relevant information/ decisions made to their class.
Report back to senior leaders
Meet with the Headteacher termly for updated discussions
Support in the organisation of whole school fund raising and sports events
Bring new ideas, and solutions from their classmates to senior leaders
Raise any issues or concerns their peers may have
Interview new/potential staff (if required)
Take visitors on Thomas Arnold School tours.

Councillors also lead monthly surgery sessions drop-in surgeries, providing an ongoing system of support for their peers.