Wellacre’s Student Voice Speaks Out

Posted at 9:42 am on 5th December, 2018

Students join Let’s Talk Youth Conference

Wellacre students were invited to attend the ‘Let’s Talk Youth’ conference on 15th November by the Trafford Youth Cabinet.  

Wellacre’s Pankhurst, Lowry and Turing House student leadership teams joined other secondary schools from across Trafford at The Life Centre in Sale to consider the issues facing youths in the area and to learn more about the Trafford Youth Parliament.  

Groups were challenged to develop their own political party, design the branding and create a manifesto of key issues.  Wellacre boys ‘launched’ the Trafford Equalitarian Party and pitched their manifesto, which aimed to end hate crime, ensure equal pay and equal education, human rights for all and better transport.  Their audience included Andy Western, Leader of Trafford Council.

Year 9 Matthew, Vice Captain for Lowry, said:

“It was good to gain an insight into how local government works and how we can get involved with youth politics in the future.  We really enjoyed the day and learnt lots of new skills that will help us in our future, such as presenting to large audiences and working as a team.”

Students also discussed a range of issues throughout the day including those raised in the recent ‘Make your Mark’ youth vote.  Tackling knife crime received the most votes both at Wellacre and nationally. So, at the conference, they were asked to think about why the issue is concerning to the youth today and then presented their ideas on the impact and the importance of addressing the issue.

Mrs Irwin, Teacher of Religious Studies, said:

“We should be really proud of our students who represented Wellacre at Let’s Talk Youth.  They spoke confidently, persuasively and with passion about the issues important to them. Well done boys, we definitely have potential future leaders and politicians at Wellacre!”