Hampstead Parochial School Council Empowering Change, Promoting Growth, and Building Community through Christian Values
At Hampstead Parochial School, our school council not only plays a pivotal role in fostering student development and encouraging active participation, but also deeply reflects our Christian values of koinonia, forgiveness, respect, compassion, friendship, and responsibility. Each year, two students from each year group are selected to represent their peers based on criteria such as leadership potential, teamwork, and presentation abilities. These students take on the important task of voicing the concerns, ideas, and suggestions of their classmates, ensuring that their voices are heard in decisions that shape the future of Hampstead Parochial School.
Our school council members serve as the hands and feet of Christ in our school, promoting unity and positive change through collaborative action and a shared sense of responsibility. They embody the values that define our school community—building a place where students not only grow academically but also spiritually and socially.
Key Contributions of the Hampstead Parochial School Council, Guided by Our Christian Values:
- Raising Money for Charitable Donations:
The school council, driven by compassion and a strong sense of responsibility, regularly organizes fundraising events to support local and global causes. This reflects our Christian calling to care for those in need, following the example of Christ’s love and generosity. These charitable initiatives help to cultivate a spirit of service and kindness, nurturing the value of forgiveness and showing the importance of helping others without expectation of anything in return. - Improving School Resources:
Guided by responsibility, council members engage in meaningful discussions about acquiring new resources that enhance the school environment. Whether it’s for the classroom, library, or sports, the council is dedicated to improving the learning experience for all students. They are encouraged to think not just of their own needs, but of the needs of others, embodying the respect we show each other within our school community. - Enhancing School Facilities:
The council continuously works on ideas for improving school facilities, from playground enhancements to new sports equipment. These initiatives come from a place of friendship and koinonia, as the students collaborate with their peers, teachers, and staff, seeking to create spaces where everyone feels included and valued. By working together, they live out the Christian principle of building a community that encourages cooperation and mutual respect. - Enhancing the School Lunch Experience:
School council members also engage with staff to review and suggest changes to the school lunch offerings. Their discussions, grounded in respect for one another’s preferences and needs, ensure that the meals are nourishing for both the body and the spirit, promoting the values of care and compassion for others in our school.
The ‘Green Dragon’s Den’ Project:
As part of their efforts to improve the school, the Hampstead Parochial School Council participates in the ‘Green Dragon’s Den.’ In this exciting initiative, students pitch their ideas to local businesses for funding. The process allows them to practice their responsibility and respect for the school’s mission while using creativity to impact the school’s future. Through this project, the council members learn to present their ideas with confidence, working collaboratively to secure funding for projects that will improve their school environment. It is a great example of koinonia as they pool their ideas and talents to benefit the whole community.
Personal Development through Active Participation and Christian Values:
Being a part of the school council is not just a leadership role; it is an opportunity for personal and spiritual growth. Through their involvement, students develop key skills such as communication, collaboration, and problem-solving, but they also learn important Christian values. The council helps students grow in their understanding of responsibility for both their actions and the wider community, while learning the importance of forgiveness when challenges arise and respect for differing opinions and perspectives.
Koinonia—the Christian principle of community—is at the heart of the school council’s work. Whether raising money for charity or working to improve the school’s resources, the council exemplifies what it means to live and work together in unity. Through their efforts, students are not only preparing to become leaders in the school but are also learning what it means to serve others, to show compassion to those around them, and to foster an environment built on trust and friendship.
The School Council Selection Process:
Each year, two students from each year group are selected for the school council based on their leadership qualities, teamwork skills, and ability to present ideas effectively. This process encourages students to reflect on their values, including respect for one another and responsibility toward their peers. The council members are entrusted with representing the school community, and through their roles, they demonstrate the importance of forgiveness and compassion in resolving conflicts and making decisions that affect the entire school.
At Hampstead Parochial School, the school council is integral to ensuring the voices of students are heard. It serves as a platform for students to contribute positively to the development of the school, creating an environment where Christian values are lived out every day.
