Student Leadership

Student leadership enables students to develop themselves and our school community and encompasses our BTH Way to work hard, be kind and develop your whole self.  They are given the opportunity to influence, motivate, and guide their peers. It can involve a variety of activities, including: 

• Clubs: 

Students can become part of the Student Council, the Prime Minister for the Student Council, Anti-bullying Ambassadors or Mental Health Ambassadors. 

• Faith Leaders:

Students can be part of the SVP team or faith in action team. 

• Sports: 

Students can become Sports Leaders and represent the college in school events and assist in primary school events.

• Community service: 

Students can volunteer and support local communities, such as Wythenshawe Food Bank and Oldfield Bank residential home

• Publications:

Students can work on the college newsletter or yearbook. 

 

Student leadership is an essential part of our culture at Blessed Thomas Holford.

It lies at the heart of building a sense of community and family at school.

It provides opportunities for students to make a difference to their own lives and to the lives of others.

It provides innovative ideas for school improvement.

It provides opportunities for students to take responsibility and monitor the impact of their actions.

It allows students to develop key leadership skills that can be applied to their future college, university, apprenticeship or career.

It helps students to stand out from the crowd.

 

The Student Council represents the student body, their voices and democracy here at Blessed Thomas Holford. We aim to bridge the gap between students and staff, allowing them to interact by having a say in the decisions made within the college.

Structure

The Prime Minister will then choose a cabinet to lead each ministry focus area (October).

Each Ministry will have a KS3/KS4 and KS5 lead.

• Each year we will hold a general election and a subsequent cabinet reshuffle.
• Students Council form reps will opt in to a ministry they are passionate about (October).
• Each Ministry will meet once per half term, to consider student feedback with staff leads.
• The Sixth form lead will minute the meeting.
• The Ministry leads will feedback their findings to the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister.
• The Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister will meet Mrs Hogg to discuss main findings.
• The Headteacher will decide which proposals are acted upon.

What does student council involve?

-Student involvement - a voice & positive school culture

-Creating positive changes that can make YOUR school a better place

-Involvement in school events & charities

-6 Ministries to choose from i.e. health and wellbeing

-Learn about democracy

-Understanding leadership and decision making skills

The role of the Prime Minister

-Lead the student council meetings

-Represent the views of SC and meet with Mrs Hogg every half-term

-Delegate tasks to deputies & to the ministries

Our Anti-bullying Ambassadors play a crucial role in creating a safe and supportive college environment. Their responsibilities typically include:

• Raising Awareness - Organising events, assemblies, and campaigns to educate students about the effects of bullying and the importance of kindness and inclusion. Using posters, newsletters, and social media to spread anti-bullying messages.
• Supporting Peers - Providing a listening ear and support for students who are experiencing bullying
• Creating Safe Spaces - Establishing safe places where students can go if they and feel supported and cared for.
• Promoting Inclusivity - Organising activities that promote teamwork, respect, and understanding among students. Celebrating diversity and fostering an inclusive college culture.
• Ensuring students are aware of counselling services and other support mechanisms available to them.
• Training and Workshops - Participating in training sessions to stay informed about the best practices for preventing and addressing bullying.

Our Mental Health Ambassadors are individuals within our college who work to promote mental well-being and support those who may be struggling with mental health issues. Their responsibilities typically include:

• Raising Awareness - Organising events, campaigns, and activities to educate peers about mental health, reduce stigma, and promote understanding. Using posters, social media, and newsletters to spread messages about mental health awareness and resources.
• Providing Support - Offering a listening ear to peers who need to talk about their mental health concerns; guiding students towards professional help, such as college counsellors, therapists, or helplines, when needed.
• Creating Safe Spaces - Establishing areas where students can feel safe and comfortable discussing their mental health issues.
• Promoting Self-Care and Well-Being - Encouraging and teaching peers about self-care practices, stress management techniques, and healthy coping strategies. Organising activities that promote relaxation, mindfulness, and overall well-being, such as yoga sessions, meditation, or wellness workshops.
• Educational Initiatives - Conducting workshops and training sessions on mental health topics, such as anxiety, depression, resilience, and mindfulness.
• Ensuring students are aware of and have access to mental health resources, such as counselling services, crisis helplines, and informational materials.
• Demonstrating healthy behaviours and attitudes towards mental health.
• Encouraging a positive and supportive college culture where mental health is prioritised and respected.

Mental Health Ambassadors play a vital role in promoting a supportive and understanding environment, helping to ensure that students feel safe and supported in addressing their mental health needs.