School Council 2025-26

We are a group of children, chosen by our classmates, dedicated to making our school a better place for everyone. As the voice of the pupils, it is our mission to ensure that every child at our school has the opportunity to express their thoughts and ideas. We aim to make our voices heard respectfully and effectively.

Every week, we come together to discuss important matters happening in our school and explore topics from our new Picture News. If our classmates have concerns or suggestions, we bring them to our weekly meetings, where we discuss them thoughtfully and work towards positive solutions. Together, we strive to create a school community where everyone feels heard and valued.

 Year 1 Yusra & Ayaan 1L
Essa & Neriah 1P
Year 2 Nazia & Aashir 2P
Muhammad H & Ahmad 2D
Year 3 Eshal & Ayaan 3B
Nasa & Shireen 3W
Year 4 Ayman P & Zainab 4M
Hiba & Muhammad 4K
Year 5 Vina & Syed 5W
Abubakr & Shayma 5T
 Year 6 Nzyar, Moiz, Yusuf, Aiza, Hadiya & Sara 6C
Sajid, Laiba, Husna, Huzaifa, Omar & Ruweyda 6A

Children should understand how citizens can influence decision making through the democratic process.

Children should develop an appreciation that living under the rule of law protects individual citizens and is essential for their wellbeing and safety

British Values & RRSA Links – Spring 2

Week 1 – How might robots change our daily lives?

During this discussion, pupils shared their views about how robots are being used in the world today. Children listened to different opinions about whether robots should replace certain jobs or work alongside humans.

This discussion supported British Values, particularly mutual respect and democracy, as pupils shared their ideas and listened to the viewpoints of others.

RRSA Links

  • Article 12 – Children have the right to share their opinions and be listened to.

  • Article 13 – Children have the right to express their ideas and thoughts.

 

Week 2 – How can it feel to travel in a new way?

Pupils discussed the Artemis rocket programme and how space travel can help humanity explore and learn more about our universe. Children reflected on how astronauts might feel when travelling into space and the importance of teamwork in these missions.

This discussion supported British Values, including individual liberty and mutual respect, as pupils explored different perspectives and shared their ideas.

RRSA Links

  • Article 12 – Children have the right to express their views.

  • Article 29 – Education should help children develop respect for others and the world around them.

Week 3 – What makes something fun?

During this discussion, pupils shared their views about why people enjoy different hobbies and interests, using Pokémon as an example. Children listened to different opinions about what makes something fun and explored how shared interests can help people connect with others.

This discussion supported British Values, particularly mutual respect and individual liberty, as pupils shared their own ideas and respected the choices and interests of others.

RRSA Links

  • Article 13 – Children have the right to share their ideas and opinions.
  • Article 15 – Children have the right to meet with other children and join groups.

 

Week 4 – What makes someone a champion?

During this discussion, pupils learned about the Winter Paralympics and considered the qualities athletes show when overcoming challenges. Children talked about fairness, inclusion and the importance of giving everyone the opportunity to take part and succeed.

This discussion supported British Values, particularly mutual respect and individual liberty, as pupils explored how everyone should be valued equally and given the chance to achieve their potential.

RRSA Links

  • Article 23 – Children with disabilities have the right to live full and active lives.
  • Article 29 – Education should help children develop their talents, abilities and respect for others.

 

British Values & RRSA Links – Summer 1

 

Week 1 – Is it ever too late to try something new?

During this discussion, pupils learned about the inspiring story of an 82-year-old runner preparing to take part in the London Marathon. Children discussed the importance of resilience, confidence and perseverance when trying something new. Pupils shared their own experiences and listened to different opinions about overcoming challenges and achieving goals.

This discussion supported British Values, particularly individual liberty and mutual respect, as pupils reflected on making their own choices and encouraging others to succeed.

RRSA Links

Article 12 – Children have the right to share their views and be listened to.
Article 29 – Education should help children develop their talents and abilities.

 

Week 2 – What is the best way to support people who need extra help?

During this discussion, pupils learned about AI-supported glasses designed to help people with memory difficulties. Children explored different ways people can be supported in everyday life and discussed the importance of kindness, patience and understanding.

This discussion supported British Values, particularly mutual respect and individual liberty, as pupils considered how everyone should be treated fairly and supported to live independently.

RRSA Links

Article 2 – All children have the same rights and should not be treated unfairly.
Article 23 – Children with disabilities have the right to live full and active lives.

 

Week 3 – How can music bring us together?

During this discussion, pupils explored the Eurovision Song Contest and discussed how music can bring people and countries together. Children shared different opinions about whether competitions should focus only on winning or also celebrate creativity, culture and teamwork.

This discussion supported British Values, particularly mutual respect and tolerance, as pupils listened to and respected different viewpoints and cultures.

RRSA Links

Article 13 – Children have the right to share their thoughts and ideas.
Article 31 – Children have the right to take part in cultural and artistic activities.

 

Week 4 – Why do some people become so important?

During this discussion, pupils learned about Sir David Attenborough and his work helping people understand and protect the natural world. Children discussed the importance of caring for the environment and explored how individual actions can positively impact the planet.

This discussion supported British Values, particularly individual liberty and mutual respect, as pupils reflected on personal responsibility and respecting the world around them.

RRSA Links

Article 24 – Children have the right to a clean and safe environment.
Article 29 – Education should help children develop respect for the natural environment.

Every half term the school council meetings are based on different themes which are closely linked to the school assembly themes, British values links, the UNCRC and support the children’s social, moral, spiritual and cultural development.

Spring 2 update

School Council have had a busy and positive half term, working hard to make improvements across the school. We have introduced new play equipment to enhance break and lunchtime experiences, helping to ensure pupils have more opportunities for active and enjoyable play.
In addition, we have been working creatively to promote our school values by writing poems, which will be displayed around the school. These reflect what our values mean to us and help remind everyone of how we can show them in our everyday actions.
Summer 1 update

This term, School Council members have continued to represent pupil voice by sharing ideas and feedback from their classes. We have supported Picture News discussions, acted as photographers during Green Day and continued our roles as Play Ambassadors and Anti-Bullying Ambassadors.

We are proud to help make our school a positive, inclusive and enjoyable place for everyone.


Picture News is a weekly current affairs resource that helps children understand the world through engaging news stories and questions. It encourages pupils to discuss real-life issues, share opinions, and consider different viewpoints.
Through these sessions, children develop key skills such as debating, justifying their answers, forming arguments, and listening respectfully to others. It also builds their knowledge of current events while promoting thoughtful discussion and confident communication.

The school councillors support their classes to learn about these current issues in the news and, during our school council meetings, they feedback the thoughts and feelings of their classes.

Spring 2

Week 1 – How might robots change our daily lives?

This week, classes talked about robots and how they are being used in the world today. Children shared their ideas about how robots can help people with different jobs, such as exploring space, helping in hospitals, and supporting people at home.

Pupils discussed the benefits of robots, but also thought about important questions, such as when robots should help humans and when people should still do the jobs themselves. It was great to hear so many thoughtful ideas during our class discussions.

Week 2 – How can it feel to travel in a new way?

This week, classes talked about the Artemis rocket programme and how exciting new ways of travelling to space could be for humanity. Children shared how astronauts might feel when travelling in a rocket, including excitement, curiosity and a little nervousness. Pupils also discussed how space exploration helps us learn more about the Moon and our universe, and why teamwork and bravery are important for astronauts on these missions.

Week 3  – What makes something fun?

This week, classes talked about Pokémon and why it has stayed popular with children and adults for so many years. Children shared their ideas about the different ways people enjoy Pokémon, such as collecting cards, playing games, watching programmes and spending time with friends.

Pupils discussed how fun can look different for different people and thought about why hobbies can bring people together. It was lovely to hear so many thoughtful ideas during our class discussions.

Week 4 – What makes someone a champion?

This week, classes talked about the Winter Paralympics and learned about the athletes who take part in these events. Children explored the different sports involved and discussed the determination, courage and resilience needed to compete at such a high level.

Pupils reflected on what it means to be a champion and how hard work, perseverance and fairness can help people achieve their goals. It was wonderful to hear so many thoughtful ideas during our class discussions.

Summer 1

Week 1 – Is it ever too late to try something new? 

Our classes have been inspired by this week’s story about an 82-year-old runner taking part in the London Marathon. We discussed whether it is ever too late to try something new and shared our own goals and challenges. This linked closely to our school values, encouraging perseverance and a positive mindset. We also reflected on how we can support and motivate each other to keep trying, even when things feel difficult.
School wide voting results
Yes it is too late: 38 (22%)
No it is never too late: 164 learners (78%)
Week 2 – What is the best way to support people who need extra help?
This week, classes explored how new AI glasses are helping people with memory difficulties. We discussed the best ways to support people who need extra help and the importance of kindness, patience and understanding. This tied into our ongoing work around school values, as well as reminding us how we can show respect and care for others in our everyday actions.

Week 3 – How can music bring people together?

During this discussion, pupils explored the Eurovision Song Contest and considered how music can bring people and countries together. Children discussed whether competitions should focus only on winning or whether they can also celebrate creativity, culture and unity. Pupils shared their opinions respectfully and listened carefully to different viewpoints during the discussion.

This discussion supported British Values, particularly mutual respect and tolerance, as pupils explored how people from different backgrounds can come together and celebrate diversity.

RRSA Links

  • Article 13 – Children have the right to share their thoughts, feelings and ideas.
  • Article 31 – Every child has the right to relax, play and take part in cultural activities.

 

Week 4 – Why do some people become so important?

During this discussion, pupils learned about Sir David Attenborough and his lifelong work helping people understand and protect the natural world. Children discussed the importance of caring for the environment and considered how small actions can make a positive difference to the planet. Pupils reflected on the qualities of determination, curiosity and responsibility shown throughout his life.

This discussion supported British Values, particularly individual liberty and mutual respect, as pupils explored how individual choices can positively impact the wider world and future generations.

RRSA Links

  • Article 24 – Children have the right to a clean and safe environment.
  • Article 29 – Education should help children develop respect for the natural environment.

Our commitment to creating a vibrant and inclusive play environment for everyone in our school community is a top priority. This dedication is reflected in the role of our Play Ambassadors, who help make playtime fun, safe, and engaging for all. Their responsibilities include:

  • Being friendly, approachable, and a positive role model
  • Encouraging inclusive play and ensuring everyone feels welcome
  • Leading and organising fun and interactive playground games
  • Promoting teamwork, collaboration, and friendship through play
  • Supporting younger pupils or those who may feel unsure about joining in
  • Sharing creative play ideas and initiatives through the school council magazine

At Brandwood we take bullying really seriously and as a result of our hard work, dedication and respect for each other we have gained the ‘BIG Award’ once again. This demonstrates that as a school, we have shown excellence in dealing with and preventing bullying wherever possible.

To maintain this approach our school councillors have also take on the important roles of Anti-Bullying Ambassadors. Their role includes ensuring any bullying is dealt with effectively in our classrooms and on the playground and that anti-bullying strategies are promoted effectively.

The ambassadors provide support for anyone that feels bullied by:

  • Listening to children if they feel worried or concerned
  • Ensuring any issues or concerns are reported to the class teacher
  • Making sure that everyone acts as part of a team
  • Ensuring that no child is alone at break times
  • Becoming an active role model to everyone in school.

For more information about our approach to anti-bullying and how to report incidents please visit out anti-bullying information page