Student Leadership
Student leadership is an integral part of life at City of London Academy as we strive to prepare our students for their futures in the wider world, and refine the school’s provision to reflect the needs of our learners. There are opportunities to become involved in student leadership in every year group, from Year 7 all the way to Year 13.
CoLA Southwark’s elected Student President and Vice Presidents lead a thriving group of student voice representatives on both the main and sixth form sites. Each form in Years 7 – 13 has an elected representative who meet every half-term and work hard to represent their fellow students’ views across the school. As well as being responsible for running public student voice forums and charity events, our leadership team meets with the headteacher frequently, addressing issues that affect them and maintaining strong communication with staff. Achievements of the Student Council include the opening of the Year 7 Playground; the introduction of a ‘Girls Only’ football area, and the establishment of a supervised independent study area for Year 11s at break and lunch times.
In Year 11, a number of exceptional students are appointed as lower school Prefects; they work in an ambassadorial capacity as role models around the academy: supporting younger students; running charity events and organising celebrations throughout the year. These student leaders act as a bridge between the staff and student bodies, helping to maintain a safe and purposeful environment for all students to learn in lessons, and enjoy their break times. This year they have already run a Talent Show in celebration of Black History Month, and are currently working on a Sustainable Fashion Show.
Student leadership opportunities at CoLA give ambitious pupils the chance to step up and represent their community; to have a genuine impact on day-to-day school life, and cultivate a sense of belonging.
Read what our student leaders have to say below:
‘As a Prefect, I assist the students in maintaining a positive and respectful environment within the school. I am a role model and set an example for the younger years; I sometimes support events throughout the school and I ensure that every student feels included and listened to. I have really enjoyed being a Prefect, as it has allowed me to grow and to develop my sense of responsibility and confidence. It has empowered me to assist younger students, whilst also making the school a better place for all, thus making every day in school even more comfortable.’
Princess-Dassie Sackey – Student Vice President
While this year has been tough for all of us, I am incredibly proud to see how far we have come together as a community. As Vice-President, having the opportunity to co-lead major events has absolutely pushed my own experiences of being in such a leadership position.
Taking up such an important role allows us to make certain decisions that are only made to benefit the students at hand. This has additionally given me an elevated level of obligation, respect and duty which I have taken up gladly and embraced. Furthermore, cooperating with those in other such leadership positions has provided the school with benefits that I’m sure has helped.
Now more than ever we need to be there for each other, especially during a time of panic and confusion that I’m sure will be over soon. Thank you to those who have voted for me and given me a voice within the school, the team promise to remain vigilant and resistant with the remaining time we have.
Ridhwan Ibrahim – Student President