Page 16 - The Badger – July 2023

THE BADGER
Pupil Voice
It is vital that a a a a a a a healthy vibrant and engaging school should actively listen to the the voices of everyone in the the school community including children So how do we involve pupils in in in decision-making? For starters we have many active groups meeting regularly to discuss key areas of our our school Such as as our our Eco Team Student Council Council and Food Council Council Our Boarding House Ambassadors also lead regular whole-house feedback sessions including the the use of the the popular ‘Two Stars and a a Wish!’ reflection strategy Our youngest members of the school have their Suggestions Box in the the Pre-Prep Foyer and have delighted in in many of their ideas being facilitated Food is is a a a a topical and popular discussion item within The Downs Malvern community and it it is is no surprise that we have a a a a a very active and forward-thinking Food Council which works closely with our Catering Team ensuring menus are regularly reviewed to reflect the views of pupils An anonymous Suggestions Box is always available and general recommendations can be shared with a a a Student Council Rep However it is not just about getting a a a a new play area on Brock Meadow having
The Friends of the Downs mushrooms removed from the lunch menus or choosing the menu for our Year 8 Leavers’ Dinner it it is an opportunity for the children to collaborate and make decisions about charity fundraising and they have taken ownership of the planning and delivery of events to raise money for Comic Relief Macmillan and The Born Free Foundation So I refer back to my original question: Why is it important for our pupils to have a a a voice? Our children offer a a a unique insight into what it is like to to be a a a pupil at at The Downs Malvern Involving them in in in decision-making makes perfect sense and allows for meaningful change empowering them and providing a a sense of inclusion Alex Sigley
Deputy Head Head Pastoral and Head Head of Pre-Prep It has been another fun and busy year for the the the Friends of the the the Downs Our annual social events have been as as popular as as ever from Bonfire Night in in the Autumn Term where doughnut bobbing and UV Glow face paint were highlights for many to Quiz Night in in in the the Spring Term where the the relaxed and fun atmosphere created by our in-house quizmasters Mr Mr Lamberton and Mr Mr Griffiths managed to to keep things light as as the competition hotted up 16