Our School Councillors in Year 5 and 6 took part in an inspiring training session on Courageous Advocacy, led by Mrs Barrett (Headteacher at St Michael's) alongside pupil leaders from across the Arch Collaborative. The session focused on equipping our pupils with the skills to lead collective worship and assemblies that inspire positive social change and raise awareness of global injustices.

 

Our school councillors were quick to make links to our recent whole school assemblies on British Values and will now plan an assemblies to link how Nelson Mandela links to this work.

 

What is Courageous Advocacy?

Courageous advocacy is all about using your voice and taking meaningful action to support others and challenge inequality, going far beyond simple fundraising.

During the session, the council explored inspiring role models who stood up for change:

  • Historical Figures: Nelson Mandela, Desmond Tutu, Mahatma Gandhi, Rosa Parks, Martin Luther King Jr., and Malala Yousafzai.

  • Modern Champions: Climate activist Greta Thunberg, disability advocate Matt Stutzman, child welfare campaigner Tony Hudgell, and homelessness campaigner Max Woosey.

Mastering High-Impact Assembly Leadership

Mrs Barrett shared key standards to help our pupil leaders deliver engaging, powerful assemblies:

  • Presence & Voice: Standing tall and speaking confidently to reach everyone in the room.

  • Visual Slides: Using photos and powerful quotes rather than reading from a script on screen.

  • The "Echo" Technique: Loudly repeating audience responses so every contributor feels validated and heard by the whole room.

  • Deeper Questioning: Moving past basic facts to ask meaningful questions about courage, determination, and why people take action.

Next Steps & What's Next

Pupil teams across St Michaels, St Margaret, St Luke, Heathbridge, and Hopwood are now planning their very first independent assemblies!

  • Researching Advocates: Over the coming week, our pupils will be researching their chosen advocates to understand their life stories inside out.

  • Preparing Resources: Teams will draw on recommended books—including Pansy Boy and Amnesty International resources on children's rights—and powerpoint templates.

  • Rehearsals: Groups will meet during break times and lunchtimes to practice their presence and presentation techniques before delivering their assemblies to peers.

 

We are incredibly proud of our School Council members for stepping up as thoughtful, courageous leaders! Stay tuned for updates on their upcoming assemblies!