School Council
At The Fermain Academy, we want our students to have a real say in what happens in school. Our School Council gives students the chance to represent their peers, share their ideas and help make Fermain an even better place to learn.
School Council members are elected by their peers. Students who want to stand for election put together a short manifesto and present their ideas to their form. Their classmates then vote for the person they feel will best represent them. It is a simple but important way for students to experience democracy and understand that their voice can make a difference.
The School Council meets every two weeks with a member of the Senior Leadership Team. They talk about the things that matter to students, including safeguarding and attendance, wellbeing, activities during free time, trips and the curriculum. Students are encouraged to bring ideas from their forms and to take feedback back to their peers.
The most important thing is that students can see their ideas being put into action. The school has introduced a number of ideas and changes that have come directly from the School Council. This means that students know their views are listened to and that they can have a real influence on school life.
The School Council has also had some great opportunities outside school. Members recently visited Westminster and met our local MP, giving them the chance to find out more about democracy, how Parliament works and the role of an elected representative. Of course, the trip also gave them the opportunity to experience the sights, sounds and delights of big city London!
Our School Council is about giving students a voice, building confidence and showing them that their ideas and opinions matter.
- Increasing the choice of food on offer at breakfast and breaktimes.
- Working with the safeguarding team to introduce cups with lids for all staff and students.
- Discussing student views on form time, how it can be valuable for students and add value to their time in school.
- Working with senior leaders to develop rewards for attendance, engagement and following the school values.
