PUPIL VOICE AND SCHOOL COUNCIL

The Student Council was formally established in September 2024, with all members democratically elected by their peers. Following their appointment, council members introduced themselves to each class and began gathering the views and ideas of pupils across the school. Their first task was to identify key areas pupils wanted to focus on or where they felt their voices needed to be heard.

One of their initial projects has been to review the school values, working collaboratively to translate them into child-friendly language. These refreshed values have been introduced to the wider school community through assemblies, where actions linked to each value are being modelled and celebrated. Please see examples of the pupil-designed value posters below.

At Bishopswood, pupil voice is central to shaping our provision. This includes:

• Giving feedback on lessons and classwork

• Providing comments in books about the accessibility and enjoyment of their learning

• Suggesting adjustments or improvements to classroom resources

• Contributing directly to their Annual Reviews, sharing both successes and barriers to learning

Where appropriate, pupils are also encouraged to attend their reviews in person, helping them develop confidence and self-advocacy skills.

We actively promote independence and communication as two of the key pillars of our curriculum. Every opportunity is taken to empower pupils to express their views, make choices, and develop their sense of responsibility and belonging within the school.