Student Council History
In
2003 as a result of a series of questionnaires carried out with
students, staff and parents a number of developmental priorities were
chosen as needing immediate attention. The student body was anxious to
have a Student Council as were many of the staff in order that the
students would experience a greater sense of empowerment.
Mindful also of our obligations under the Education Act, a process of consultation with senior students and staff took place in order to arrive at a satisfactory Student Council Constitution where the aims and raison d’etre of the Council were clearly spelled out. The Student Council Constitution now in place had the approval of students, staff and Board of Management. (See attached Constitution).
Elections for the first Student Council took place in October 2004 and resulted in the election of a representative from each class in the school, leading to a 24 member Council. Students have permission to canvass the week before the election and the sense of excitement created around the school is palpable. Voting takes place by secret ballot and candidates are elected by simple majority vote.
Council members take their duties seriously and requests from the Council to school authorities have generally been very well received. The Councils of 2004/05 and 2005/06 have focused their attention on raising issues of concern to specific year groups as well as focusing efforts on “Spirit Week” – a special week of activities during May to raise morale and general pride and enjoyment in being part of this specific school.
The Student Council has fulfilled its remit admirably to endeavour to improve where possible the school and the daily lives of the students in a spirit of co-operative partnership.