The Student Council

Article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) provides that children and young people should have a say in decisions that affect their lives.  A Student Council can provide a meaningful way in which pupils can voice their opinions and have their views considered in decisions which impact upon them. It is an important and useful way for schools to provide leadership and development opportunities for their pupils.  

Our Student Council is largely reflective of the ‘Democra-school’ programme envisaged by the Commissioner for Northern Ireland Children and Young People (NICCY). It aims:

  • to give students a means by which they can articulate their thoughts and ideas for the benefit of the school community; 
  • to involve students in assisting with the creation, communication and implementation of relevant school policies and procedures; 
  • to liaise with other agencies/groups as appropriate e.g. Parents and Friends Association; and
  • to support charitable events throughout the academic year and fund-raising events for the school. 

Why Join?

Participating in the School Council will assist students to develop leadership skills, confidence, public speaking abilities and negotiating skills. It will also allow them to effect change, add to their CV and to try new things by stepping outside their comfort zone.

Elections & Meetings

Students vote for their choice of representative.  Two candidates from each year group are elected to represent their year group on the Student Council. On election, various roles are allocated to representatives.   Elections are for a period of one academic year.  Students and their representatives put ideas for discussion forward and feedback is provided on outcomes and agreed actions subsequent to the monthly meeting. The Student Council Lead, Ms Doherty, facilitates the scheduled meetings.