On Monday 1st May 2025, representatives from each of our secondary schools were invited to the WPT Head Office in Rotherham to meet our Board of Directors as part of their most recent Board meeting. The students, all members of their respective Student Councils, were treated to a buffet lunch before meeting with Directors in what was a first-of-its-kind meeting between student and Trust leadership.
The event, a fact-finding endeavour for the Directors, covered topics including the impact Student Councils have on their schools, how student leaders listen to their peers and communicate key issues to senior leaders, and whether there is anything more our Trust can do to positively impact the lives of the young people in our care.
Helen O’Brien, CEO, said: “The students were exceptional. They spoke with confidence, maturity, and clarity, and their contributions reflected a deep sense of responsibility and pride in their schools. It was clear they had thought deeply about the issues they wanted to raise—not just on behalf of their own school community, but across the wider Trust.”
Steve Calvert, Chair of the Board of Directors, said: “The students have certainly given the Board significant matters to consider. It’s truly reassuring to know we have individuals who are not only capable of articulating their perspectives, but also deeply committed to representing the interests of their fellow students.”
The students were a credit to their schools and our Trust. We are already reflecting on the conversations that took place and planning the next meeting.
