Open Education/Pupil Council

Pupil Council

 * Gives pupils the chance to share their ideas with their peers and teachers
 * Represents each pupil and is way to put forward pupils ideas and views
 * Meets on a regular way to discuss important school issues and projects
 * Puts forward the views of all pupils

How to get onto a pupil council

 * By standing for election through being nominated or nominating yourself
 * By a democratically run election with pupils and teachers having equal voting rights
 * Voting will be counted and verified correct
 * Support to run and if any doubts over decisions will seek consensus from pupils

The pupil council probably has

 * A constitution, which are rules setting out roles and responsibilities
 * A defined meeting system based on the constitution - may be hierarchical and include agendas and minutes
 * A recorder of items discussed at the meetings
 * A support teacher who assists

Pupil council meeting

 * At pupil council meeting important issues are discussed, ideas shared and action points decided.
 * The aim is for the discussions to be orderly and fair, with everyone having an equal opportunity to talk or be listened to.
 * It is important that all councilors share their viewpoints during the meeting.
 * Aim for consensus in making decisions and use the Warrington School Decision Making Process

After the meeting

 * After the meeting councilors report back to their class while things are still fresh in their minds - this helps every pupil to feel involved
 * Teachers need to give enough time to let the class discuss points that have been raised
 * A class or school suggestion box can also be used to gather ideas, which can be discussed at the next meeting

What are the benefits of a pupil council?
'''Get involved in your pupil council. You can make a difference!'''
 * The pupil council involves you in decisions that affect you, your class and your school.
 * It keeps you informed about the life of the school and helps you to gain the confidence to have your say.
 * It also can help you to feel good about your place in the school community by giving you responsibilities and encourages you to be an active citizen.
 * The advantage is that it gets exciting issues moving and can deal quickly with issues that trouble you.