December 3, 2015 10.00 am This story is over 99 months old

Lincoln pupils given the reins to change the way their school is run

Having their say: Pupils at a Lincoln school are being given a unique opportunity to help decide how things are run – and they’re already making a host of changes.
The new Cherry Willingham Community School Council.

Pupils at a Lincoln school are being given a unique opportunity to help decide how things are run – and they’re already making a host of changes.

A newly-established school council has been set up at Cherry Willingham Community School, meeting every fortnight to encourage a sense of responsibility for their development.

The head boy and head girl, along with 14 representatives from every form, make up the council, which is being supported by religious studies teacher Martin Frost.

A chair for the council, Jamie Lamper, has been appointed and at the inaugural meeting members discussed ways to improve ICT provision, the school canteen and the activities offered at lunch breaks.

Suggestions have already been made for ways to organise the canteen to avoid queues.

Head teacher Elaine Stiles said the decision to set-up the school council was a one a crucial step in growing the community feeling at the school.

She said: “The school places great importance on providing the care, guidance and support that enables each pupil to achieve their full potential.

“Part of the process involves creating a supportive community and we want pupils to play a positive role in both helping to grow and safeguard that community.

“The council has already proven a fantastic addition to the school by offering innovative and practical ideas and we look forward to a long and successful future for the assembly.”

Approximately 500 pupils attend the school, which has the motto “Be Your Best”.

The school has also established new pastoral care systems for each specific year groups and is working towards the Bullying Intervention Group National Award.