Congratulation to our newly elected St Matthias School Parliament!
School Parliament
School Parliament
Over the past academic year, St Matthias’ School Council has tried to make the school an even happier place for children to learn and to build relationships. We have tried out hardest to speak to our own classes about things that they want to improve or develop, and have then discussed these ideas as a group.
We are looking forward to our trip to the Houses of Parliament later this year!
Did you know that the Houses of Parliament are also known as The Palace of Westminster?
Have a look at this icon building for yourself in this interactive tour.
What is School Parliament?
St Matthias School Parliament is made up of a group of pupils from Year 2 to Year 6, who have been elected by their classmates. The pupils who are elected into School Parliament will first be taught more about the role of Parliament at Westminster and will then be assigned roles that mirror those within the government. Our School Parliament meets twice every half term to discuss things relating to their roles, as well as anything that comes up in their class ‘surgeries’, when other pupils have the opportunity to talk about concerns or ideas that they wish to be discussed in School Parliament.
Being a member of School Parliament allows all children across the school to have their voices heard but it also gives the members of School Parliament opportunities to work collaboratively; take responsibility; work democratically; and put their ideas into action.
Visit our school’s writing blog to see some of the letters that we have written to Parliament, in order to find out what life is like as an MP.
Roles within School Parliament
- Community Ministers
- Sports Ministers
- Wellbeing Ministers
- Chancellors of the Exchequer/ Treasurers
- Clerks
In addition to these roles, representatives from St Matthias’ Eco-committee and from St Matthias’ Apps Council will feedback once a half term.
How does School Parliament work?
- Each class elects a School Parliament member at the start of the year
- Once a fortnight, class ‘surgeries’ will take place to listen to classmates
- Twice a half term, the School Parliament will meet, supported by Ms Baez
- During the School Parliament ‘session’, ministers will feedback and actions will be decided/ acted upon – notes will be taken by the clerk
- Ministers will feedback to classes, if necessary
How else will School Parliament help?
In addition to the meetings, School Parliament will:
- Learn what it is to be good ministers from local councillors/ MPs
- Be excellent role models for all pupils
- Help to organise events
- Create and reflect upon pupil voice surveys
- Be fair, clear and adaptable
Remember, you have the right to have your voice heard (Article 12 of the UN Convention of the Rights of the Child).
If you want to be have you voice heard and become a member of the School Parliament, click here!