Student Council

The student council is a formal group of pupils who act as representatives of their classmates in discussing school issues with the Principal and staff. Children who join the student council are involved in organising events for the entire school to enjoy, have their opinion heard and counted on a range of important topics, and help shape the future of NEW Academy.

50 Things to Do Before Leaving NEWA

To help ensure all our students experience a range of activities, the student council at NEWA have created an exciting initiative called “50 Things to Do Before Leaving NEWA” . This document serves as a guide for students, encouraging them to engage in various experiences throughout their time at school. By completing these activities, students can gain new skills, make lasting memories, and enjoy a well-rounded education. The list promotes participation in both academic and extracurricular activities, fostering a vibrant school community.

The activities on the “50 Things to Do Before Leaving NEWA” document are diverse and imaginative, allowing each student to discover their passions and interests. From participating in school clubs and sports teams to volunteering for community service, the list is designed to include something for everyone. Additionally, the student council has ensured that the activities span a range of challenges and experiences, encouraging students to step out of their comfort zones. This approach helps to build confidence and develop essential life skills.

Moreover, the initiative encourages camaraderie and teamwork among students. As students work together to complete various tasks, they strengthen friendships and create a positive school environment. The challenges included on the sheet can also serve as conversation starters, allowing students to connect with peers they might not otherwise meet. Overall, the “50 Things to Do Before Leaving NEWA” initiative not only enriches individual experiences but also strengthens the bonds within our school community, making the educational journey more enjoyable and fulfilling for everyone. 

To see some of the events the student council helps plan, please click here

Our Student Council also played a key role in helping the school achieve the Eco Award with Distinction, and we are incredibly proud of their dedication and leadership.

Student Council Represent Our School at Sustrans Summit in Birmingham

Members of our Student Council recently had the exciting opportunity to attend a regional summit in Birmingham as part of Sustrans’ Big Walk and Wheel initiative. This event brought together young people, educators, transport specialists and policy makers to explore how active travel can be made safer and more accessible for pupils across the region.

During the summit, our students took part in workshops, group discussions and planning sessions focused on improving walking and cycling routes for school communities. They also delivered confident and passionate speeches, sharing their own experiences and proposing practical solutions for making local neighbourhoods safer for young people.

Their thoughtful contributions captured the attention of several policy makers and local authority representatives, who praised the students for their maturity, insight and commitment to positive change. Many attendees commented on how inspiring it was to hear young voices speak so clearly about the barriers they face and the improvements they want to see in their communities.

The event not only gave our Student Council a platform to influence real change but also equipped them with new knowledge and ideas that they are eager to bring back to school. They now plan to work with staff, pupils and local partners to support active travel initiatives and help make everyday journeys safer for all.

We are incredibly proud of their achievements and the positive way they represented our school throughout the summit.

What’s next? Student Council to Lead Healthy Food Discussions in DEFRA‑Funded Project

We are delighted to share that our Student Council will be taking a leading role in a DEFRA‑funded research project exploring how schools can offer healthier and more accessible food options to all students.

As part of this initiative, our student representatives will work with researchers, staff, and fellow pupils to gather ideas, share experiences, and help shape practical recommendations that could benefit schools across the country.

This is a fantastic opportunity for our students to influence real change, champion healthier choices, and make a meaningful contribution to improving school food for everyone. We are incredibly proud of their commitment and enthusiasm for this important work.