Pupils at Leeds school shine as they become model citizens

Pictured from left Coun Salma Arif, Headteacher Jenny Millington and Coun Fiona Venner, with children from Kerr Mackie Primary School in Roundhay, who are Unicef Champions, in front of a Rights Respecting School display in the school hall. Picture by Simon Hulme

Youngsters at Kerr Mackie Primary School, at Gledhow Lane, Roundhay, took part in a special event marking the 30th anniversary of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Kerr Mackie was accredited with a UNICEF SILVER Rights Award in 2016, in recognition of what pupils and staff had achieved to become a Rights Respecting School (RRS).

Education leaders say winning the award has since helped pupils to grow into confident, caring and responsible young citizens both in school and within the wider community.

Councillor Fiona Venner, Leeds City Council executive member for children and families and Coun Salma Arif, deputy executive member, were taken on a tour of the school by pupils to showcase their work on what the rights mean to them.

The councillors, along with senior council staff, were shown RRS classroom charters and met with staff to find out how the convention provides an overarching set of values that improve the climate for learning within school.

Coun Fiona Venner said: “In Leeds, we are committed to putting children and young people at the heart of everything we do and ensuring that they have a voice and influence.

“It was so inspiring to see the energy and enthusiasm that pupils have for learning about their rights and what they mean - it really supports our city’s child friendly ambitions.”

Headteacher Jennifer Millington said: “It has been a pleasure and a privilege hosting visitors to celebrate this special occasion.

“Children really are at the heart of all we do at Kerr Mackie. Our pupils take great pride in showcasing their learning on why we are a Rights Respecting School.

“Being accredited with a Unicef Silver Rights Awards means a lot to our pupils and they have enjoyed the opportunity to share and show with passion and conviction how important the convention is to them and everybody else in the school environment.”

Max, a Rights Respecting School Champion in Year 6, said: “Without rights children might not be protected as much as they are and every child deserves to be protected and have a good life.”

Niamh, a Rights Respecting School Champion in Year 6 added: “Rights are important because without them children wouldn’t get what they need. Rights help children learn to their full potential and help them have a good healthy lifestyle.”