Pupil Leadership at St Mary’s
At St Mary’s, we believe that every child can be a leader and has a valuable contribution to make. We actively develop pupil leadership so that children grow in ambition, confidence and kindness, and learn how to contribute positively to their school and the wider community. We are committed to ensuring that all pupils feel a strong sense of belonging and are encouraged to take on leadership opportunities, regardless of their background, needs or barriers they may face.
Our Approach
We provide a range of opportunities for pupils to take on leadership roles and responsibilities. We actively encourage all children to apply for these roles and provide the support they need to succeed. We celebrate the unique strengths of every pupil and strive to ensure our leadership teams reflect the diversity of our school community.
Through these roles, children learn to:
- Communicate their ideas clary
- Listen to others and represent their peers
- Take responsibility and lead initiatives
- Contribute to real change within the school
Why it matters
We believe that when children are given meaningful opportunities to lead, they develop the skills and confidence they need for the future. Leadership helps pupils feel included and connected to their school community, strengthening their sense of belonging and purpose. Our aim is that all pupils leave St Mary’s as confident, articulate and compassionate young people who are ready for the next stage of their education and beyond.
Our Leadership groups
School council
Each class elects two school councillors who represent the views of their peers. They gather ideas and concerns from their class and meet regularly to discuss school improvement.
Head pupils
We have two Y6 head pupils, supported by two deputy head pupils, who represent the school and model our values. They are selected by staff members and are great role models for all pupils.
RE Ambassadors
RE Ambassadors help to promote and strengthen the Catholic life of the school by monitoring prayer areas and evaluating weekly Celebrations of the Word. They help to ensure that faith remains at the heart of school life.
Pupil Chaplains
Pupil Chaplains play a leading role in supporting and organising liturgical and whole-school prayer services. They help to guide the school community in prayer, fostering a welcoming and reflective environment where everyone can grow in faith.
House captains
Each house has two house captains from Year 6. They support and lead house events and encourage participation and teamwork.
Eco-committee
This group is made up of pupils from across the school who are passionate about caring for our environment. They lead initiatives to make our school more sustainable, promote recycling and help raise awareness of environmental issues.
Reading champions
Our Reading Champions are enthusiastic readers who promote a love of reading throughout the school. They support reading events, recommend books to their peers and encourage younger pupils to develop positive reading habits.
Junior Safety officers
Junior safety officers help promote a safe, healthy and positive environment throughout the school. They work with staff to identify ways to improve health and safety, encourage responsible behaviour and support initiatives that promote wellbeing.
Boombassadors
Boombassadors help to promote a love of reading across the school by supporting other pupils with their reading. They act as positive reading role models, encouraging younger children and celebrating reading achievements throughout the school community.