MORE than 100 students from six Cambridgeshire schools gathered in St Neots last week to take part in a day-long project designed to let students have a more active role in their schools. Called Student Voice, the event was organised by St Neots Community

MORE than 100 students from six Cambridgeshire schools gathered in St Neots last week to take part in a day-long project designed to let students have a more active role in their schools.

Called Student Voice, the event was organised by St Neots Community College students for pupils from Samuel Pepys School in St Neots, Longsands College, St Neots, City of Ely Community College, Sir Harry Smith Community College in Whittlesey and Bassingbourn Village College.

Throughout the day, the children were involved in a series of workshops and presentations, with each school having its own stand where students could explain how they are 'empowered' to take ownership of their own education.

Schemes included students in some schools observing lessons and providing feedback, pupils working with health and safety committees, and children helping to interview new members of staff.

St Neots Community College head boy Tony Hodge, 18, was one of three students to organise the event.

He said: "The day was a brilliant success for all involved and it's really good to know that all our efforts contributed to such a valuable and worthwhile event."

Fellow organiser and head girl, Lol Kendall, 18, added: "It's so important that students are empowered to influence and affect their own education in a variety of ways. It was extremely interesting to exchange thoughts and ideas regarding this matter with students from other schools."

The third organiser was Kerri Wooding, 17, who is head prefect at the community college.