Student Voice in Trafford

Posted at 9:54 am on 29th November, 2022

Wellacre at Trafford Youth Conference

Wellacre was pleased to attend the annual Trafford Youth Conference again, delivered by the Trafford Youth Cabinet for secondary school students.

Members of Wellacre’s Executive Council attended the day and participated in workshops on fast fashion, jobs and finance, and invisible disabilities and sexism in schools.

Conference attendees were all split into groups with students from other schools, and throughout all the workshops the forum was open to questions and discussion.  To aid teamwork, the groups took part in an interactive activity where they had to move around the room to ‘agree’ or ‘disagree’ with issues around education including behaviour and uniform.

All student teams worked together to create their own political party and manifesto to highlight their key priorities for Trafford, the UK and the world!

Evan, Lowry’s House Captain and in Year 10, said:

“This is the second time I’ve been to the Trafford Youth Conference and it’s a great experience. I would advise anyone that had the opportunity to come along.  It’s a good way to learn about issues affecting young people and to offer your opinions.

“The conference is a good thing to be a part of.  It helps you build your confidence and people skills, and there’s an opportunity to become part of the Youth Cabinet and see your views and opinions be taken even further with the Youth Parliament.”

Evan and Jack, both in Year 10, expressed an interest in joining the Trafford Youth Cabinet and will be invited to meetings both online and in person.

Evan has been an active member of Wellacre’s Executive School Council since Year 8. 

He adds:

“Being a member of the Executive Council has felt like I’ve had some power at school to voice my opinion and help make decisions and encourage change.” 

Principal Mrs Sharrock commented:

“It is really important that students get the opportunity to participate in sessions such as these which enable them to shape local policies and practices.  Well done boys.”