CEO’s Blog – Student Voice

(24th February 2023)

A few weeks ago, before the half term break, I said I would be reporting on how we listen to the Student Voice across our MAT and wider Group.

Well, this week, I’m able to do just that, as some of our schools and settings have been sharing their Student Voice stories in their blogs.

Let’s start with Spring Brook Upper, who have shared a few videos selected by their students.

The first shows Watford FC footballer, Ken Sema, conducting a post match interview, where he overcomes his issues with a stammer.

A truly inspirational pick from the students at SBU.

https://twitter.com/WatfordFC/status/1627812390958952449 

Secondly, they’ve highlighted this video for a mention in their assembly.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pDMIjsl7gyo 

It is a video all about how pain is temporary, and it is another great pick from the students at SBU.

That’s how they’re making their voices heard then, but what about elsewhere across New Bridge?

Here’s an update from Hollinwood, about their student council:

“Our primary and secondary school councillors held a joint meeting with Mrs Needham, Mrs Halkyard and Mrs Harrington. Within this, they discussed:

· Acknowledgement of achievements:

This academic year, the student council have raised money for a variety of charities and the school community. The Christmas fair was a huge success again, and the communication and nurture classes liked the new addition of the ‘quieter’ time period. The student council raised money and donated towards the homeless charity too. Well done to all involved!

· Training for secondary students:

Mrs Harrington made the council aware that it was mental health and well-being week and there are lots of activities planned for Friday with an additional surprise being delivered on Wednesday – Watch this space!

· World Book Day:

Mrs Halkyard informed the council that this year students and staff can get dressed up as their favourite book characters this year.

· Up and coming events:

Lots of fantastic discussions by students were made for future fundraising, these ranged from funds for the hungry in Africa, to raising funds to decorate the new library bus.

Our school councillors absolutely inspire us with their dedication to their role and the confidence they have in communicating their thoughts and ideas within the meetings but also with their classes and forms. Well done Hollinwood Academy School councillors – you are doing an AMAZING job!”

There you go then, Student Voice is alive and well across our schools, and I’m certain that it’s making a difference.

Making a difference is something we should all strive to do.

How can you try to make a difference this weekend?

Take care

Graham