Student Leadership

Waterhead Academy is a community in which students are fully integrated in student leadership roles that support the work of the Academy and the wider community, whilst at the same time developing their leadership skills and preparing them for the next stage of their education, training or employment.

Students will develop leadership skills through a variety of opportunities which impact positively within school on teaching, learning and well-being for both students and staff, as well contributing to our local community.

Individual photos to follow:

Student Leadership Opportunities

Year 7-11 Leadership Teams

Members of the appointed student leadership teams apply through completing an application form and undertaking a formal interview process. Successful applicants must demonstrate exemplary behaviour and model the Academy core values to their peers.  Student leaders undergo leadership training, support at key events and have additional school duties. Senior Programme Leaders oversee their respective year group Leadership Teams.

House Captains

House captains are required to play an integral role in the organisation and officiating of competitions, they must demonstrate leadership qualities through recruiting students from their respective houses to participate in events as well as being a role model to their fellow peers through modelling the Academy core values.

Peer supporters / Buddies

Appointed Year 10 and Year 11 students are available daily to support students with any concerns. Being friendly and approachable and ensuring that students know who they can talk to and what support is available is their key role.  The students also support students through transition from Year 6 to Year 7.

Community Leaders

Students plan and undertake a range of community based projects. The group meets weekly and visit the local residential care home to provide a range of well-being activities to residents inclusive of arts and crafts, crocheting, board games, table tennis and indoor curling. Mrs Poulter oversees the Community Leadership Group.

Well-Being Ambassadors

Our Wellbeing Ambassadors work hard in promoting wellbeing and supporting mental health with students across school. They undertook training delivered by Oldham Youth Service, the Manchester United Trust and school staff to promote student and staff involvement in promoting well-being.

Eco School Ambassadors

Our Eco School committee meet regularly with Miss Duckworth to discuss environmental issues and actions. Our focus is on developing a growing understanding of litter, energy, waste, water, environment and healthy living.

Sports Leaders

These students will be selected by the PE department based on effort, participation and commitment to t sport. Sports Leaders will assist members of the PE team through a range of ways including notifying their peers of sports fixtures, organising and officiating house competitions, leading warm ups and cool downs during lessons and promoting the wide range of enrichment opportunities available to students within the PE department.

Student Interview Panel

Students from all years can be selected to be part of the interview process for all new staff.  They are selected to represent the school community as a student interview panel and are a critical element in the decision to appoint.