Children’s Parliament

At Waterton Academy Trust, we believe in the power of pupil voice. The Waterton Children’s Parliament is a vibrant and empowering platform that allows pupils from across our schools to have a direct impact on their educational experience. This initiative ensures that our pupils are not just participants in their education but active contributors to the decision-making processes that shape their school life.

What is the Children’s Parliament?

The Children’s Parliament brings together representatives from each school within the Trust, creating a space where pupils can discuss and influence key issues that matter most to them. From improving the school environment to planning events and enhancing learning opportunities, the Parliament is a place where every pupil’s voice is valued.

By participating in the Children’s Parliament, pupils develop essential leadership skills, a sense of responsibility, and a stronger connection to their school community. This initiative underscores our commitment to pupil empowerment and inclusive education, demonstrating that when pupils are engaged and their voices are heard, they thrive academically and personally.

Highlights of the Children’s Parliament Activities

Over the years, our Children’s Parliament has been at the heart of many exciting initiatives:

• Waterton Young Chef (2021-2023): A culinary competition where pupils showcase their cooking talents, with winning meals featured on the school menu.
• Catering Panel (2023-2024): Parliament leaders participate in tasting panels and provide feedback on catering services to ensure high-quality food in our schools.
• Report to Headteachers: Annually, Parliament leaders present a mid-year report to headteachers, sharing their progress and engaging in a Q&A session.
• Levelling Up Discussions (2023-2024): Our Parliament Speaker and Deputy Prime Minister met with representatives from the Levelling Up Partnerships to voice the experiences of Waterton children.
• Parliament Leaders Lunch: An annual end-of-year lunch with the CEO and Chair of Trustees to reflect on the year’s successes and plan legacy events for the future.

Environmental and Charitable Initiatives

Our Children’s Parliament also plays a crucial role in driving environmental and charitable efforts across the Trust:

• Eco Group (2022-2023): Eco leaders attended summits, participated in recycling initiatives, and made pledges towards a zero-carbon future.
• Annual Trust Charity: Each year, the Parliament selects a charity, leading fundraising efforts that have raised thousands of pounds for causes like MND, RSPCA, and UNICEF.
• Fundraising for Special Causes: In March 2023, the Parliament raised £3,000 for UNICEF to support those affected by the unrest in Turkey and Syria.

Creative and Sporting Contributions

The Parliament encourages creativity and physical activity through various initiatives:

• Waterton’s Got Talent: An annual showcase of diverse talents from pupils across the Trust.
• MATlympics: A trust-wide event encouraging competition and physical fitness.
• Art Initiatives: Projects like the “Let Us Remember Them” art showcase and the “Buddy Bench” initiative, where children designed plaques to promote friendship in schools.

A Platform for Future Leaders

The Waterton Children’s Parliament is more than just a forum—it’s a movement that nurtures future leaders, fosters community spirit, and ensures that every child has the opportunity to contribute to their school’s and the trust’s success. Through their involvement, pupils learn the value of their voice and the impact they can have on their community.

At Waterton Academy Trust, we are proud of our Children’s Parliament and the remarkable achievements of our pupils. Together, we are building a brighter future, one voice at a time.

Meeting Minutes