School council leads the way

“The kids are doing so much. I wish other people could see what they are doing.”

That is how Anjum Raza, pastoral manager at Hathershaw College, sums up the dedication of the 42 pupils on its school council.

As well as raising £10,000 for local charities last year, they clear litter from local streets and people’s gardens three times a week and are boosting recycling in school.

They help also help Year 7 pupils with reading and homework, have created a video highlighting the dangers of cyber-bulling, have learnt sign language, work to improve behaviour, help plan enrichment activities and school trips, have set up a food bank for the RSPCA and co-ordinate the school’s major fundraising events for the likes of Children in Need.

Recognised

Now their hard work is being recognised thanks to a Pride in Oldham nomination by assistant principal Lorna Philip.

Mr Raja, who co-ordinates the school council, said: “Other youngsters just want to go home and play on the Xbox or chill with friends. These pupils are dedicated — they give up their time three days a week after school.”

School council members are elected by their form groups and the council is split into four action teams — eco, enrichment, learning action and study welfare.

They also attended a workshop during the summer holidays to learn basic sign language and Mr Raja added: “We have a number of deaf students. We felt that if we wanted to be inclusive, the school council should be able to sign.”