On arrival, the Mayor was greeted by the Head Students, who joined him and the school’s Chair of Governors for a Q&A session before leading the way to the school theatre for the presentation ceremony.
The ceremony was opened by Clare Pedlar, Assistant Headteacher and Personal Development Lead, who reminded students that leadership is about having the courage to step outside their comfort zone. In a proud moment for the school, each Head Student then stepped forward to share a short mission statement setting out their ambitions for the year, before receiving their badge from the Mayor.
The school’s student leadership programme has grown rapidly, with this being the second year since its launch. Students now take on a wide range of roles, from Inclusion and Safeguarding Ambassadors to Attendance Ambassadors, giving them the chance to champion important causes and make a real difference to school life.
The visit formed part of the school’s International Day of Democracy celebrations, shining a spotlight on student voice and the part young people play in leadership and decision-making. Democracy and citizenship are a growing focus at Noel-Baker; in June Clare was selected for this year’s UK Parliament Teacher Ambassador Programme, and 30 students are set to visit the House of Commons during UK Parliament Week in November as a result.
“Our student leaders have shown real courage in stepping forward to represent their peers, and it was wonderful to see them share their ambitions for the year with such confidence. In just one year, the programme has given students the chance to take on meaningful roles and make a genuine difference to our school community.
“It was a real privilege to welcome the Mayor to Noel-Baker. His visit made the morning truly special for our students and we are so proud of how they represented the school.”
“Meeting the Mayor and getting my badge made me feel really proud. Being an ambassador means I can speak up for other students and help make Noel-Baker somewhere everyone feels they belong.”
