SST Leadership
Student Leadership at JMF6-Abingdon
As a member of JMF6 Abingdon, the expectation is to meet the standards required of a professional student. The development of professional working habits will not only contribute significantly to academic progress but will remain with students when moving to their next destination, and onwards.
Key to this is playing a leadership role, and all students are expected to demonstrate this role working side by side with younger students and being genuinely positive Role Models. They will be alongside them in lessons, at break and lunch, and as pastoral support. Similarly, staff work alongside students – physically, in the 6th Form Centre at both sites, but also in the Senior Student Team (SST).
The SST consists of 31 students who, in a rigorous selection process, demonstrate the skills and commitment that allow them to lead both the Sixth Form student body, and the rest of the students across both schools. Led by 2 Head Students and 4 Deputy Head Students, this team works proactively and tirelessly to lead JMF6 Abingdon.
The SST has several committees, let by Committee Chairs, that plan and develop ideas and actions across the following areas:
Charity
Clubs & Activities
Communication & Media
Diversity & Inclusion
Environment
Events
Sports
Teaching & Learning
This powerful student voice is invaluable in making sure that JMF6-Abingdon stays current, relevant and continues to develop.
I am very excited to be one of the Head Students at JMF6 this year, after attending Fitzharrys for the previous five years. This role gives me the opportunity to represent the school and my fellow students, whilst giving back to the people that have and continue to support me throughout my academic career. Whilst the transition to year 12 can be daunting, I have found that the teachers and support staff are always welcoming and supportive from the induction day and throughout your time here.
I am currently studying A levels in English Literature, Psychology, Drama and Core Maths, as well as undertaking an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), with a view to studying Primary Education with Qualified Teacher Status at University. JMF6 have been great at supporting the step up to A levels, helping us to achieve our goals and to prepare for next steps with guidance on completing all aspects of our UCAS forms.
The combined sixth form at JMF6 provides a unique experience, which provides students with the chance to meet new students and teachers and to experience a plethora of opportunities. Students are encouraged to take up opportunities to expand their studies by completing an Extended Project Qualification on a topic of their choice and option to complete the Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award. Alongside this, students can choose to join a range of clubs including MUN (Model United Nations), sports, craft clubs and many more, or to start their own club! You can also get involved with a range of committees for whichever area you are passionate about by joining and getting involved in the student leadership team. There are opportunities for mentoring younger students, organising events and working to improve the JMF6 experience for everyone.
From my personal experience I have learned to take up many of the opportunities offered to me, which has allowed me to gain confidence and step outside my comfort zone, which I think will be helpful in the future. As Head Student, I aim to build on the work of previous years to create a more integrated sixth form with plenty of opportunities, good communication and support all-round, allowing all students to have a place in which they can fulfil their potential.
I feel incredibly proud to be Head Student and to represent a school that has been part of my life since Year 7. I'm currently studying A-levels in Spanish, Maths, and Physics—subjects I enjoy for their challenge and the different ways they help me think and communicate. I enjoy travelling and studying a language helps me to mix with people in their native language. In year 10, I contributed to the raising of £12,000 to join a volunteer trip to Kenya with the Nasio Trust. During Covid I set up my own pizza business and with the help of my brother delivered pizzas locally to raise funds.
For me, school is about much more than just academic learning. It's a place where strong friendships are built, skills are developed, and where everyone should have the chance to grow and feel part of a wider community. I believe in the importance of supporting others, giving back, and creating positive connections. Taking part in the Duke of Edinburgh scheme at school is an opportunity to do this, at the same time as getting involved in extracurricular activities and forming friendships with new people.
My vision for the student leadership team is to strengthen the bond between both schools and foster a real sense of belonging for every student. I want to help create an inclusive environment where everyone feels seen, valued, and able to take pride in who they are and the school they’re part of. A big part of that involves listening to student voice and working closely with staff and our student committees to make meaningful changes that improve the experience of everyone at JMF6.