As we kick off a new academic year, we’re excited to share our first blog of the term, highlighting the remarkable strides made by Kirk Hallam Community Academy. 

Last summer term, our Head of Membership, Karen O'Connor, had the pleasure of visiting this vibrant secondary school in Nottingham. With their first year as members of Smart School Councils, Kirk Hallam Community Academy has already made impressive progress under the enthusiastic guidance of Lead Teacher Amanda Speake. 

A Look at Kirk Hallam Community Academy’s Journey

Kirk Hallam Community Academy, located in Nottingham, has made a remarkable start with the Smart School Councils programme, driven by Amanda Speake's dedication and the school’s commitment to pupil voice. Amanda, who previously implemented Smart School Councils at her primary school, has successfully introduced the programme to the academy, fostering a culture of active student participation.

During Karen's visit, the focus was on how the academy uses Smart School Councils to engage students in meaningful ways. The school’s communication team and action teams are led by enthusiastic students, with debates and class meetings forming the backbone of their activities. Students have expressed their appreciation for the philosophical style of questions, which encourages open and thoughtful discussions.

One notable change driven by Smart School Councils feedback was the improvement in school dining facilities. Students’ detailed comments led to a re-evaluation of the catering contract, ensuring that the new provider met their expectations. Additionally, feedback about outdoor areas led to the installation of parasols, enhancing the comfort of students during breaks.

Here’s a look at the top three tips from their journey that other schools can use to enhance their pupil voice initiatives.

Tip #1: Tailor Communication Team to Suit Student Needs

At the academy, the Communication Team is a key player in engaging students. To make communication effective, the school ensures that students are highly involved. By adapting the Communication Team’s strategies to meet the needs of the students, the school fosters a robust environment for student voice.

Tip #2: Prepare Targeted Questions for Students

To make the most of time with students and gather valuable insights, the academy has discovered the benefits of preparing suggested questions ahead of discussions. This strategy helps maintain consistency in feedback and ensures that discussions are focused and productive. It also allows students to delve deeper into topics, providing richer, more actionable feedback that can drive meaningful change within the school.

Tip #3: Capture Student Perspectives More Effectively

The school’s experience highlights the importance of capturing and understanding student perspectives. By actively seeking and incorporating student feedback, Kirk Hallam Community Academy has seen significant Pupil-led changes. This approach not only addresses student concerns but also reinforces the value of their voices in shaping school decisions.

Looking Ahead

Kirk Hallam Community Academy is planning an exciting art exhibition, linking community volunteering with student-led art projects. This initiative underscores the school’s commitment to integrating student voice into broader community activities.

Amanda's experience highlights the key differences between running Smart School Councils in primary versus secondary settings, particularly in terms of logistics and the depth of debate. The larger school environment offers students more opportunities to engage in complex discussions and take on significant roles.

Big Thanks and Closing Thoughts

A big thank you to Amanda Speake and the rest of the Kirk Hallam Community Academy staff for their warm welcome and dedication to empowering student voice. Their innovative approach and commitment to listening to students sets a great example for schools everywhere. We look forward to seeing more schools embrace the Smart School Councils programme, paving the way for a more inclusive and dynamic educational experience.

Here’s to a fantastic year ahead filled with growth, learning, and the continued success of pupil voice at your school!

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