Student Leadership

At New Mills School, students are actively encouraged to take on leadership opportunities. Leadership is central to personal growth and plays a pivotal role in preparing our students to thrive both within school and beyond.

Our student leadership pathways offer a wide range of opportunities, from taking responsibility within the classroom to more formal leadership positions across the school. Many of these roles involve an application or recruitment process, helping students to think big by building confidence, resilience, and key skills in self-management.

Student leadership runs throughout our school systems, including student voice, peer support roles, and senior leadership opportunities. Our students are recognised as role models within the school and wider community, regularly representing New Mills School at local events and activities, always striving to do the right thing.

Our ambition is that every student will experience at least one leadership role during their time with us. We believe passionately that these opportunities enable students to develop the character, teamwork, and values they need to flourish, achieve their full potential, and, with true team spirit, go on to lead happy and successful lives.

Leadership Opportunities at New Mills School:

• Head Students

• Deputy Head Students

• Prefect

• School council members

• Wellbeing ambassadors

• Student Librarians

School Council Structure:

Once a term, the school holds a whole-school council meeting during the first week of term. At the initial meeting in September, sub-committees are formed and roles, responsibilities, and objectives for the academic year are agreed.

Every fortnight, our sub-committees — led by a Deputy Head Student and supported by staff members — meet to discuss key issues linked to their objectives. These smaller, less formal groups provide a supportive environment where students feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and ideas while working on whole-school projects. Feedback from each sub-committee is then presented at the school council, ensuring that every voice contributes to whole-school decision-making.

Minutes from both council and sub-committee meetings are recorded and stored centrally within the school.

Our sub-committees are based on our school values: -

• Think Big - Community

• Do the right thing – Wellbeing and inclusion

• Team Spirit – Charity

Meet our student leadership team 2025-26:

Head Students

Rina Baranenko

As Head Student, my goal is to strengthen communication between students and staff so that the student voice drives real improvement.

I set up the Debate Club at New Mills School, giving students the chance to share their ideas and opinions on important issues.

My priority for the next year is to improve cultural and social understanding by introducing a Cultures Day to celebrate different faiths and traditions. I am proud to represent the school and look forward to helping shape its future.

Emily Kendall

I wanted to become Head Student because I believe I am a positive role model who shows respect, empathy, and commitment to our school community.

At New Mills School, I have been a Sports Leader in Years 8–10, coached younger netball teams, completed my Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award, and I’m now working towards Silver. I have also supported school events such as Open Evening and Year 6 transition.

Outside school, I work at a public riding school, supporting health and safety and accompanying riders.

I strive to live by our school values — Think Big, Do the Right Thing, and Team Spirit — every day. As Head Student, my main priority is to promote student wellbeing and strengthen support for mental health, working closely with students and staff to ensure the student voice drives positive change.

Deputy Head Students

Amelia Dobbs – with responsibility for Charity Work

I joined New Mills School in Year 9 and have enjoyed my time since joining. The staff and students were warm and welcoming, and I wanted to give something back to the school and community.  I have a passion for helping people and am looking forward to getting involved in charity work in the local area.   

As well as my Deputy Head Student role, I am a wellbeing ambassador within the school and am happy to help if any students would like to come and see me! 

Felicity Greetham – with responsibility for Wellbeing and Inclusion

I joined the Student Leadership Team because I want to ensure that students have a voice and feel included in shaping the future of New Mills School.

I have taken part in the School Council and completed the Peer Educators training programme, which has given me the chance to make a real difference.

My priority for the next academic year is to improve student wellbeing by creating quiet spaces during social times, giving students the opportunity to relax, reflect, and feel safe in a positive school environment.

Tully Hope-Coudrill - with responsibility for Community Engagement

As a Student Leader, I want to be approachable and represent the ideas of other students, while also working with teachers to influence decision-making in school.

I have been actively involved in the School Council, taken part in enrichment activities such as Gardening Club, and supported whole-school events like Parents’ Evening and Open Evening.

My priorities for the next academic year are to reduce litter and encourage pride in our school grounds, as well as to create more opportunities for fun and engaging activities such as talent shows, form competitions, and lunchtime clubs.