Our School Council

At Daylesford Academy, we believe every pupil should have the opportunity to shape and influence our school community. The Pupil Council plays a vital role in driving positive change by representing the voice of our young people.

What is the Pupil Council?

The Pupil Council is a group of five pupils, elected by staff and their peers, from across all year groups. These representatives meet regularly to share the views and experiences of the wider pupil body, consider ways to improve school life, and raise key issues with the Senior Leadership Team and Governors.

Our pupils bring valuable perspectives to conversations about learning, wellbeing, and school culture. Through the Pupil Council, they learn to express their ideas constructively, understand rights and responsibilities, and see how collective action can bring about meaningful change.

Aims of the Pupil Council

The Pupil Council exists to:

• Champion pupil voice and involve students in shaping school policies and decisions.

• Identify opportunities for positive change within the school and wider community.

• Give pupils a platform to share their feelings, experiences, and opinions on matters that affect them.

• Support an inclusive and respectful school culture where every pupil feels heard and valued.

Role and Responsibilities

The Pupil Council acts in a consultative capacity to the Senior Leadership Team and may take on other responsibilities as required. The council will:

• Work collaboratively with SLT, ensuring all suggestions align with the school’s expectations and policies.

• Explore creative ways to involve parents, carers, and families in school life.

• Strengthen links between the school and external groups, services, and the wider community.

• Represent the pupil voice and act as ambassadors for their peers.

Each council representative is expected to:

• Listen actively to their peers.

• Share the views and ideas of their year group during council meetings.

• Report back to their peers and staff about key discussions and outcomes.

Meetings and Communication

Pupil Council meetings are held once every half term. They are co-chaired by a council member and a member of the pastoral team, and take place during the school day with the support of SLT.

Each meeting follows an agenda which includes:

• Items proposed by the Senior Leadership Team

• Issues raised by pupils in each year group

• Topics related to ongoing school improvement

Meeting minutes are taken by a member of the council alongside a pastoral team member. These minutes are reviewed by SLT and discussed further in leadership meetings. Outcomes and actions are then shared with the wider pupil body through circle time and at the next council meeting.