School Council at
Bowman Academy
At Bowman Academy, the School Council plays a vital role in ensuring that pupil voice is meaningful, valued and has a real impact on school life. It provides pupils with a safe, structured and supportive opportunity to share their views, influence decisions and contribute positively to our school community.
Through participation in the School Council, pupils develop confidence, responsibility, communication skills and an understanding of democracy, helping to prepare them for life beyond school.
What Our School Council Looks Like
The School Council is made up of pupil representatives from across the school, ensuring a wide range of voices, needs and experiences are represented. Each class selects one pupil to act as their representative.
Pupils are supported by staff to take part in meetings, share ideas and represent the views of their peers. Meetings are carefully structured and adapted to meet the needs of our SEMH pupils. This includes clear routines, adult facilitation, visual supports and flexible ways for pupils to communicate their ideas.
School Council representatives listen to their classmates’ views and bring these to meetings, where ideas, concerns and suggestions are discussed with staff and senior leaders.
Impact of the School Council
The School Council has a positive impact on both pupils and the wider school community. Through involvement, pupils:
• Feel listened to and valued
• Build confidence, self-esteem and leadership skills
• Learn how to express views respectfully and work collaboratively
• See real changes happen as a result of their ideas
• Learn appropriate behaviour in a meeting environment
• Access new opportunities and showcase their skills
The School Council contributes to improvements in school life, including wellbeing initiatives, rewards, activities and the school environment. It also supports our commitment to British Values, particularly democracy, mutual respect and individual liberty.
Commitment to Pupil Voice
At Bowman Academy, the School Council is central to our ethos and plays an important role in shaping a positive, inclusive and supportive school environment where pupils feel safe, respected and empowered.
Roles and Responsibilities
School Council PupilsBeing a member of the School Council is a wonderful opportunity for our pupils. They:
• Listen to and represent their classmates
• Take part respectfully in discussions
• Show kindness, honesty and fairness
• Be a positive role model
• Help improve school life through projects and ideas
Staff Supporting the School Council
Staff play a key role in ensuring the School Council is effective and meaningful. They:
• Facilitate inclusive, structured meetings
• Support pupils to share their views
• Record actions and ensure follow-up
• Promote leadership, confidence and participation
Reviewing Impact
We regularly review the effectiveness of the School Council to ensure it continues to make a positive difference. This includes:
• Gathering pupil feedback
• Tracking projects and outcomes
• Reviewing actions and follow-up
• Monitoring the impact on pupil confidence, engagement and development
