Pupil leadership at LJS

At Ladysmith Junior School, we believe that every child is a leader and that every pupil should experience a meaningful leadership opportunity during their time with us. Leadership is not simply about wearing a badge or holding a title. It is about having a voice, taking responsibility, contributing to our community and recognising the positive difference you can make to others.

Our approach to pupil leadership is an important part of our Ladysmith DNA. Through authentic leadership experiences, children have opportunities to develop and demonstrate our character values, growing in confidence, independence and responsibility while learning how to work alongside others. We want children to understand that leadership can take many different forms and that everyone has strengths, ideas and qualities they can contribute.

Our children are the citizens and leaders of the future. We therefore want to provide opportunities that are purposeful, inclusive and genuinely meaningful. Whether shaping an aspect of school life, representing the views of others, supporting younger pupils, leading activities, championing an important cause or contributing to our wider community, children are trusted to take an active role in making Ladysmith even better.

Most importantly, pupil leadership is about agency and action. We want our children to know that their voice matters, their actions have an impact and they have the capacity to bring about positive change.

Through leadership, we are helping children to live our Ladysmith DNA today, while developing the character, confidence and skills they will need for tomorrow.

2026–2027

Our pupil leadership opportunities continue to grow and evolve, giving children the chance to lead in areas that reflect their interests, strengths and passions. Each group has a clear purpose and provides pupils with meaningful opportunities to have a voice, take responsibility, influence change and contribute to our school and wider community.

This year, our pupil leadership groups include:

• School Parliament – newly elected representatives who ensure pupil voice helps shape decisions and improvements across our school.
• Year 6 Ambassadors – our oldest pupils acting as positive role models and representing Ladysmith with pride.
• Maintenance Crew – taking practical responsibility for caring for and improving our school environment.
• Sports Crew – promoting active lifestyles, supporting activities and helping others to find the joy in sport and physical activity.
• Bus Librarians – bringing books, reading and recommendations directly to children through our library bus.
• School Librarians – championing reading and helping to create welcoming, organised and inspiring library spaces.
• Eco-Council – leading our thinking and action around sustainability and caring for our environment.
• Community Ambassadors – strengthening connections between Ladysmith and our local community through projects, events and partnerships.
• Pupil Advocates – a new leadership role emerging from our vertical coaching approach, empowering children to listen to, represent and champion the views and needs of others.

Together, these opportunities bring our Ladysmith DNA to life, helping children discover that leadership is not about a title. It is about character, service, responsibility and making a positive difference.