Embracing Student Empowerment: Three Top Tips from Ashford Park Primary School
Intro To The School
Last autumn term, our Co-Founder, Greg, visited Ashford Park Primary School. Led by Year 2 Teacher Aimee McCarry, the school’s Smart School Council had thrived under her guidance. Stepping into her shoes, Lucy Allen, the Deputy Head Teacher, took charge of sustaining Smart School Councils’ momentum.
Lucy's determination ensured the continuity of Smart School Councils’ core activities this year, notably the weekly class meetings - quick, pupil-led meetings across the school using the Smart School Council platform.
How They Use The Programme
Class Meetings are held weekly, with topics selected by Lucy, and plans are underway to hand over control to students once structures are in place.
With Lucy's background as a Deputy Head Teacher and the existing staff support and guidance on setting up meetings and tools from Smart School Councils, she is confident in the student’s ability to lead effectively.
Here are the top three tips on how Ashford Park Primary School is navigating their way through the programme:
Tip #1: Pupil Ownership
Encourage pupil leadership by gradually handing over control of Smart School Council activities, such as class meetings, to foster a sense of ownership among students. By actively involving students in decision-making processes, schools can cultivate a sense of ownership and commitment among the student body, leading to more meaningful and impactful initiatives.
Class Meeting Tool
Tip #2: Make Use of the One-to-One Sessions by the Smart School Councils Team
Make the most of one-to-one support sessions, like those provided by Smart School Councils, to familiarise yourself with the tools and resources available. These sessions offer invaluable guidance, making it easier to navigate the platform and effectively implement student council activities.
Tip #3: Smooth Lead Teacher Transitions
Providing clear guidance and support for new leaders ensures that the transition is seamless and allows for the sustained success of the program. By offering support and resources to incoming leaders, schools can ensure that the valuable work of Smart School Councils continues without interruption, fostering a culture of consistency and stability within the student leadership framework.
Observations and Reflections
Lucy's journey with Smart School Councils shows how well it fits into school life, highlighting its flexibility and impact. She sees the programme as a great alternative to traditional assemblies, showing how important student voices are in shaping school culture. Looking ahead, Lucy's interest in exploring Big Debate Club hints at exciting possibilities for future involvement. Her positive experience is inspiring for schools aiming to empower students and promote inclusivity.
A massive thank you to Lucy and the wonderful team at Ashford Park Primary School for hosting Greg and for their openness in sharing their experiences with Smart School Councils. It's been a pleasure learning from their journey and seeing firsthand the positive impact of student leadership.
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