At St. John’s, we believe that every child should have a voice in shaping their school experience and contributing to the wider community. Our School Council plays a vital role in promoting pupil leadership, responsibility and active citizenship. Through this, we aim to nurture confident, respectful individuals who understand the importance of collaboration, representation and service.

Our School Council helps children to develop their confidence in being agents of change. We instil democracy by voting for our School Council representatives, who are encouraged to write speeches outlining why they are interested in being elected and what ideas they would bring to the group to improve our school and community. Pupils are also asked to reflect on how they would represent the views of their peers and ensure that every child’s voice is heard. School Councillors are made aware that they are role models for behaviour and attitude across the school, and that they are expected to uphold high standards for themselves and others.

All pupils present their speech to their class, before voting takes place via a secret ballot. The class teacher counts the votes and the highest two candidates are elected to the School Council. Successful candidates are awarded their School Council badge during our Celebration Assembly at the beginning of the Autumn Term.

The School Council is actively involved in a range of initiatives throughout the year, including:

• Reviewing how playground space is used to ensure it meets the needs of all pupils

• Supporting the organisation of fundraising events for charities such as Jeans for Genes, McMillan Cancer, Poppy Appeal, Catriona’s charity, Christmas Jumper Day, Bridge of Hope, Ambitious about Autism and Comic Relief.

• Promoting healthy eating at break and lunchtime, and encouraging sustainable practices such as reducing single-use plastic and minimising waste

• Supporting staff at break and lunchtime by reporting concerns to a member of staff on duty and helping younger children in Catriona’s Garden and Sunshine Room.