The children at Shepherdswell are at the heart of our school community, and we highly value their thoughts, opinions and ideas.  Our School Council is one way of ensuring that the voice of the children is heard and can make an impact on the life and development of the school.

Class representatives from each class are elected by their peers twice a year.   In their role as School Councillor they:

  • bring forward new ideas for how we can improve our school and local environment.
  • discuss issues that the classes have raised, resolving any problems and finding solutions to make sure that all children are treated fairly.
  • lead projects in the school where the children’s input is needed, acting as a liaison between the classes and the school.

School Council meetings are held weekly, and children are given the opportunity to lead discussions.

 

Recently, our school proudly demonstrated democracy in action by holding our annual School Council Elections! 
 

Why Do We Do This? 

School Councils give children a voice, teach democratic values, and help create a better school environment. They’re a small but vital step toward shaping responsible, engaged citizens. 

Through this process, pupils learn: 

  • Their opinions matter and can make a difference. 
  • How to listen, communicate, and work as a team. 
  • Confidence, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. 

 

We promoted Democracy

The Department for Education suggests schools: 

  • Teach about democracy and the law. 
  • Give pupils a voice through democratic processes like School Councils. 
  • Use events like elections to hold mock votes and teach debate skills. 

Here’s what happened: 

Assembly Kick-Off 
Mrs Moon launched the elections with a whole-school assembly explaining what a School Council does and how the election would run. (Check out the PowerPoint slides on our Facebook page!) 

Campaigning 
Pupils who wanted to stand as candidates created manifestos, rosettes, and posters to win support from classmates. 

Voting Day 
Each pupil received a polling card and visited our pop-up polling station. 

  • The Clerk (Mrs Williams) checked names. 
  • The Presiding Officer (Mrs Moon) issued ballot papers. 
  • Pupils voted secretly for two candidates, folded their ballot, and placed it in the Ballot Box. 

Results & Celebration 
After votes were counted, results were announced during our Celebration Assembly. Outgoing councillors gave their standing-down speeches, and new councillors were congratulated by pupils and staff. They’ve already held their first meeting! 

 

Congratulations to Our Newly Elected School Councillors! 

We’re so proud of all our candidates for showing enthusiasm, creativity, and leadership. This experience helps pupils understand democracy in action and prepares them for life in modern Britain. 

School Council