Unlocking Student Voice: Inside Alleyn Court Prep School's Journey with Smart School Councils

Background:

Let's take a peek into Alleyn Court Prep School's adventure with Smart School Councils! 

Their journey kicked off in July 2021, officially getting into gear by September 21/22. Abigail Hawkins, a beloved Year 3 Class Teacher with 26 years of experience at the school, has been steering the ship through their exciting second year.

How did they hear about the programme?

By a stroke of luck, Abigail learned about the programme through her neighbour, Lorrie Goodier, from Richard Alibon. Lorrie not only introduced Abigail to the model but also provided invaluable assistance and guidance, making the initial setup much less daunting and greatly aiding Abigail in getting started smoothly.

During the visit, Abi shared some tips on how Alleyn Court Prep School use the programme:

Tip #1: Start Slow and Build Momentum

Abi took it one step at a time, starting with the Comms Team to ease into the process and allow everyone to get comfortable. Gradually introducing Action Teams ensured excitement and buy-in from all involved. Regular class meetings kept communication flowing, with Lorrie suggesting keeping things fresh to maintain engagement.

Tip # 2: Establish a Clear Annual Plan

Create a structured plan for the academic year, outlining key milestones and activities. Having a clear roadmap helps everyone stay on track and ensures that important tasks are not overlooked.

Tip # 3: Keep Things Fresh and Engaging

Regularly review and update the format of class meetings to keep them interesting and engaging for students. Consider incorporating interactive elements like debates or creative activities to maintain excitement and participation.

Tip # 4: Embrace Collaborative Projects

Explore opportunities for joint projects or initiatives with other schools or organisations. Collaborative efforts can enrich the student experience and foster a sense of community beyond the school walls.

Observations and Reflections

As we wrap up our reflections on Alleyn Court Prep's inspiring journey with Smart School Councils, it's evident that their commitment to student empowerment and collaborative leadership is truly commendable. 

With each step forward, they're not just shaping their school's future but also nurturing a culture where every voice is valued and heard. Here's to Alleyn Court Prep who's embracing the power of student-led initiatives, sparking positive change and fostering a culture of empowerment in their school.