PUPILS at an Erskine school won £200 for their winning idea at a student senate.

The incoming S3 students at Park Mains High School suggested having career professionals visit their school and interact with students twice a year during the school's recent pupil senate in Renfrewshire Council’s council chambers.

Pupils presented strategies to improve student employability skills through tutor-led skill sessions, career professional visits, local job vacancy listings, working with businesses to develop opportunities for young people, personal achievement courses, internships, and mentorships.

Their ideas were presented to their peers and a panel of teachers and officers from the council’s Youth Services and Invest in Renfrewshire teams.

(Image: Renfrewshire Council)

The initiative by the school develops student voice, and confidence, and enhances skills linked to future career prospects.

Mhairi Taylor, deputy head teacher at Park Mains High, said: “In August 2023, we started to explore ways in which Park Mains High School could enhance the pupil voice experience for our young people.

''Our senate idea was born. Never did we imagine that by our third senate, we would have access to this phenomenal experience for our young people.

''The senate model has developed a range of essential employability skills and built confidence in our young people, providing them with a vehicle to express their views in a public forum.

''We can’t wait to see the positive impact of the winning campaigns as we action the plans next session.”

Siobhan Gray, community learning and development officer, said: “As part of our role in supporting youth leadership and empowerment, Youth Services delivered training on leadership and campaigning to Park Mains High pupils in the lead up to their Pupil Senate.

"It’s been great to see their progression through the process, gaining confidence and skills to present and debate, and we’re looking forward to the next stage in their development.”

Gerry Lyons, head of education for Renfrewshire Council, said: “Giving pupils a mechanism to have their voices heard has many benefits both in terms of learning experiences for the pupils presenting their ideas and also for the wider school population who benefit from the winning idea being adopted by the school.

"I hope every pupil enjoyed the experience of holding their senate in the council chambers."