At Barley Fields Primary, we believe every child deserves to be heard. We understand that real learning and school improvement come not just from what teachers and leaders decide, but by working with our children. That’s why we have a vibrant School Council, and Pupil Governors, to make pupil voice a cornerstone of school life and leadership.
What is the School Council?
- The School Council is an elected body of children from every year group (Years 1-6) who are democratically elected at the start of the year.
- School Council meetings are held regularly, and children bring suggestions, issues or ideas from their year groups to these meetings. There is also a “suggestion folder” in the school hall so that everyone has a chance to contribute, even if they’re shy.
- The Council works on matters that affect children’s school experience — for example playtimes and games equipment, school meals, behaviour policies and charity work.
Pupil Governors
- We also appoint Pupil Governors in Year 6. These children serve as a bridge between the school council and leaders in school including the chair of the local governing body.
- Children eligible for this role are selected at the start of the year by previous pupil governors who look at applications and complete interviews to make their decisions.
- Pupil governors play a very active role in school, leading assemblies, completing surveys and producing the half termly edition of BF Voice (our pupil led newsletter). They are ambassadors or the school and help out with a range of internal activies and events.
Why It Matters: Pupil Voice & Active Leadership
Having a School Council and Pupil Governors supports several important goals:
- Democracy in action – children learn what it means to vote, to represent others, to lead, to listen, to negotiate, and to take responsibility.
- Empowerment – children feel they that their ideas, feelings and perspectives matter. This boosts engagement, self-esteem, and belonging.
- Real influence – improvements in school life are often driven by children’s input. Whether it’s choosing new playground equipment, helping shape behaviour or homework policies, or organising fundraising and whole-school events, the School Council helps turn suggestions into action.
- Leadership development – pupils learn organisational, communication, teamwork and leadership skills, whether they are leading a meeting, presenting to children, staff or governors, or helping plan and carry out projects.
- Stronger school community – when children, staff, parents and governors listen to one another and work together, the whole school ethos becomes more inclusive and reflective of our community’s values.
Our Commitment
- We commit to listen when children speak up, and to provide feedback on what has been done about suggestions and ideas.
- We ensure that the School Council’s work touches on real decisions in the school, so that children see the impact of their contributions.
- We strive for inclusivity: making sure all children (different ages, abilities, backgrounds) are represented, and all voices have safe, accessible means to contribute.
- We recognise leadership in many forms — formal and informal — so that children who flourish in different ways can lead.