Giving Pupils a Voice

Our School Council, established in 2009, plays a vital role in ensuring that pupils’ voices are heard, valued and acted upon. Open to pupils in P5, P6 and P7, the council provides meaningful opportunities for children to take an active role in school life while developing confidence, leadership and responsibility.

The work of the School Council strongly supports the Thinking Skills and Personal Capabilities framework, as well as Personal Development and Mutual Understanding, both key elements of the Northern Ireland Curriculum.

Democracy in Action

Council members are elected annually by their peers, giving pupils first-hand experience of democracy, representation and accountability. Through the election process, pupils develop important literacy, communication and persuasion skills, while learning how fair decision-making works in practice.

This approach reflects Article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), which states that children and young people have the right to express their views and to have those views taken seriously in matters that affect them.

Making a Real Difference

Over the years, our School Council has made a positive and lasting impact on school life. Pupils have been actively involved in:

  • Fundraising initiatives, including the Haiti Earthquake Appeal

  • Supporting school discos, fun nights and whole-school events

  • Purchasing new playground equipment

  • Organising school competitions

  • Planting trees and improving the school environment

  • Contributing to the review of school rules

  • Promoting positive behaviour and inclusion at lunchtime

  • Supporting the Buddy System

  • Providing classroom activities for wet-day play

These initiatives help pupils understand that their ideas can lead to real change, encouraging a strong sense of ownership, belonging and pride in their school.

Leadership, Participation and Personal Growth

Being part of the School Council helps pupils to:

  • Develop leadership and teamwork skills

  • Build confidence in speaking and listening

  • Learn about citizenship and shared responsibility

  • Experience active participation within their school community

  • Understand how decisions are made and implemented

This aligns closely with Department of Education guidance on pupil participation, which highlights the benefits not only for pupils, but for the wider school community.

Looking Ahead

Each year, a newly elected council works together to develop a plan for the year ahead. Our current council is already busy planning new initiatives and representing the views of their classmates.