Pupil Parliament
How Pupil Parliament works
The Pupil Parliament fosters leadership opportunities for pupils, enabling them to develop valuable skills in communication, organization and debating through key roles, responsibilities and new experiences. The Pupil Parliament structure follows a structure similar to the UK Government, adhering to democratic processes. It allows pupils from Year 1 to Year 6 to be actively involved in shaping the direction of Smitham, encouraging both leadership and independence.
The Pupil Parliament benefits all pupils, staff, parents and the wider community by providing pupils with opportunities to voice their opinions and influence decisions that impact them. We believe this is essential for nurturing a sense of responsibility and involvement in school life.
How can pupils join the Pupil Parliament?
At the start of each academic year, following an assembly and discussions in class, pupils from Year 1 to Year 6 are encouraged to apply to become a Member of Pupil Parliament – an MPP.
During election week, pupils can nominate themselves and write and deliver a speech to their classmates. After listening to all the speeches and taking part in a democratic election, all pupils vote at classroom polling stations, the candidate with the highest number of votes is elected as the MPP for their class.
The representatives receive a letter of congratulations and sign paperwork agreeing to follow the Smitham Pupil Parliament expectations.
Student Leadership Team
Ethan - Head of Pupil Parliament
I was honoured to be elected as Head MPP. I love coming to school here because we have a special community of teachers and pupils who all work hard and support each other to achieve amazing things. I believe I will be a good Head MPP as I am a good listener and I’m confident in sharing both my own ideas and the ideas of others. I will take a collaborative approach to this role – asking for the thoughts and opinions of those around me to help improve daily life at Smitham and make the experience even better for everyone.
This role needs someone mature, sensible and ready to support with a variety of tasks and bigger projects and I know I am ready for the responsibility, I know that being a leader is not about doing everything on your own – it’s about being a role model, encouraging others to contribute to the topis and always showing the Smitham SMART values.
Iliria – Deputy Head Member of Parliament
I am very grateful for the chance to be part of the student leadership team and be elected a deputy student leader. I will support school events and I will speak up to help collaborate with every idea we come across. I will be present in all meetings, contributing my thoughts as much as possible to make our community feel both a safe and happy environment. I will complete my role with pride and dignity.
Ted – Deputy Head Member of Pupil Parliament
It was an honour and privilege to be elected a deputy student leader. I have a wealth of background in public speaking and performance which I think will really support me in this role. I know I will listen to my classmates’ ideas, discuss these with pupil parliament and be able to pass these on to teachers and other adults too. I am a confident speaker, reliable person and a true Smitham supporter.