Student Leadership

The student leadership at Harris Garrard Academy is an exciting and dynamic group of students that embodies academic excellence, rigour, resilience, and respect.

This is a team of unique individuals that form the student council, who are making a real difference in our school and community, they have developed invaluable leadership skills.

Last year, our student leaders organised a series of incredible events that showcased their dedication and creativity.

• Culture Week: A vibrant celebration of the diverse cultures within our school, featuring food tastings, traditional dances, and cultural showcases that brought everyone together in a spirit of unity and learning.
• Kindness Week: A heartwarming initiative where students spread positivity through random acts of kindness, inspiring a wave of goodwill and fostering a supportive school environment.
• Black History Month Slam Poetry: An empowering event where students performed powerful slam poetry pieces, highlighting important historical figures and contemporary issues, and celebrating the richness of Black culture.
• Community Cohesion Projects: Students spend their weekends at a local old people’s home, engaging with residents through activities and conversations, building bridges between generations and making a meaningful impact on the community.
• School Awards Ceremony: A prestigious event where students’ achievements were celebrated in the presence of Madam Mayor Cllr Sue Gower MBE JP. This event was a testament to the meticulous planning and execution skills of our student council and leaders.
• Charity: The Student Leadership Council at Harris Garrard Academy has successfully raised £880 for charity, demonstrating their commitment to shaping the future of our school and community!

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Student leadership structure

Lacey – Senior Head Student

My name is Lacey, Head Student of Harris Garrard Academy. My goal is to improve everyone’s day, whether by resolving minor issues or fostering community through school events. I aim to unify the school under a sense of comfort.

We spend much of our lives at HGA, and enjoying our environment is crucial. Feeling represented, included, and heard is essential for thriving. As part of the student council, I want to amplify student voices and ensure everyone feels appreciated. My legacy will be one of comfort and self-appreciation for every student.

Alice – Vice Head Student

My name is Alice. I’m a player and coach of volleyball and I strive to create a community space where people enjoy learning and improving themselves within our school. Like in games, I am very team oriented, and I would like to continue such a tradition in the student council with future event planning.

I have been given the role of community cohesion whereby the students of the Harris Garrard Council will branch out and give back to the community. I hope my legacy will be extending this sense of community further in the future. 

Adebola – Vice Head Student

My name is Adebola, Vice Head Student at Harris Garrard Academy. I focus on supporting students, organising events, and collaborating with school leadership to foster a welcoming and positive environment. My goal is to ensure every student feels included and valued.

I aim to leave a legacy of positivity by building a culture of kindness, respect, and support. By encouraging teamwork and optimism, I hope to inspire others to overcome challenges and excel.

Small acts of kindness can significantly impact the school atmosphere. My goal is to create a community where everyone feels motivated, supported, and confident to succeed academically and personally.

Deborah – Hub Captain

Hi, I'm Deborah, and as part of the student council, my motto is ‘Connecting the Unseen, Engaging the Unheard.’ This means to me actively reaching out to those who often go unnoticed or feel left behind in our school community. It's about recognising and including students who might not be the loudest or most visible in decision-making and school life.

As a student council member, I aim to create meaningful change and lasting impact. I want to be remembered not just for the positions I held, but for the values I championed and the initiatives I led. I believe in fostering a more inclusive, supportive environment where every student feels heard and empowered. From improving school resources to building a stronger sense of community, my goal is to leave a foundation for future students to build on. Ultimately, I hope people will say I made a real difference, not just in policy, but in the lives of those to come.

Michael – Hub Captain

As a dedicated Student Council member, I strive to be a voice for my peers, fostering an inclusive environment where every student feels heard and valued. My role involves collaborating with council members to plan events, address student concerns, and enhance our school community.

I believe in the power of teamwork and creativity to bring about positive change, whether through organising activities, advocating for student needs, or promoting mental health initiatives.

My vision is to cultivate a culture of excellence, embracing diligence and exceptional quality. By rejecting complacency, we can unlock our full potential and achieve remarkable results.

Kyle – Events Lead

My name is Kyle. Something about me is that I'm very passionate about football, I play it every weekend and I support the greatest club in the premier league (Manchester United). I'm part of the Teaching and Learning sector whereby I strive to make learning a more enjoyable experiences, because let's face it, constant indoor lessons looking at a board is so draining.

Moreover, what I want for my legacy is to be part of the people that change the path to learning to a more outdoors, interactive schedule rather than the chained in chairs with a white light in your face. In addition, I would like for people to find a newfound love for learning as stated by our motto 'Learning Changes lives'.

Darasimi – Hub Captain

My name is Oluwadarasimi. I act as a vital link between students, teachers, and administrators, coordinating activities and fostering a positive learning environment. I ensure student voices are heard by relaying concerns and ideas to school leadership. I’m passionate about creating an inclusive atmosphere where every student feels valued and motivated.

My goal is to leave a legacy of empowerment and unity, with programs and culture that thrive long after I’ve graduated. I aim to foster belonging, academic excellence, and student leadership for future generations.

Deborah – Events Lead

Hi, I’m Deborah, a student with a passion for excellence and building a vibrant school community. I’m dedicated to celebrating diversity and creating inclusive cultural events that bring students together. From facilitating cultural festivals and themed socials to community projects that showcase our school’s rich traditions, I strive to ensure everyone feels connected and valued.

I believe in fostering an environment where students can embrace their identities, share their experiences, and create lasting memories.

Michael – Events Lead

Hi, I’m Michael. I am a student passionate about creating a welcoming and inclusive school community. I love organising events like Culture week, Christmas concert and much more to help younger students feel supported and connected. My goal is to make school an enjoyable and memorable experience for everyone by fostering a strong sense of belonging and collaboration.

Whether it’s leading on a school inititive or planning community initiatives, I’m dedicated to helping our school thrive!

Roque – Head Boy

My name is Roque, a Year 11 student and the current Head Boy at Harris Garrard Academy. I am passionate about mathematics and physics, and I take pride in my commitment to education and improving the school environment. As Head Boy, I stay busy both physically and mentally.

In addition to my GCSE studies in food technology and triple science, I work on school improvements and future planning for students. I strive to resolve any issues that arise. Having been here for 11 years, I aim to foster positive change and leave a lasting impact, ensuring everyone feels they belong. “Don’t tell me the sky is the limit when there are already footprints on the moon".

Osariemen – Head Girl

I am Osariemen, somehow HGA's second Head Girl! In Year 7 I wouldn't have believed that I had the capabilities or facilities to even become Head Girl. And now that I am here, I can say I want my legacy to be highlighted around the idea that we celebrate everything and everyone.

Without students, a school is nothing. And without teachers a school is nothing. So just like how we need each other to continue the cycle of education, we must celebrate each other to show our uttermost appreciation. If you think you're too cool for school, you must be a fool.

Daniel – Assistant Head Boy

It is a privilege to introduce myself as your Assistant Head Boy. I am honoured to be in this role and promise to give my all. As Nelson Mandela said, “What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.” My goal is to leave a legacy that inspires future generations.

We are more than just students; we are a community, a family. Together, we can make an impact. Mahatma Gandhi said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” You don’t need a title to make a difference. Let’s leave a legacy of dedication, commitment, and resilience. By working together, we create an environment where everyone can flourish. Let’s begin today.

Chelsea – Assistant Head Girl

Hello, I am Chelsea, a Year 10 student at HGA and the Assistant Head Girl for the 2024-2025 school year. This is my fourth year at the school, and I am blessed to have the opportunity to speak for the unsung. I want to create an environment where people of all backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs are celebrated and loved.

I am here to ensure that everyone’s needs and concerns are heard by every member of staff, even if they don’t know how to voice their opinions.

I intend to leave a legacy of love. I want to leave the school in the next few years knowing I made a positive change, ensuring that every student at HGA is heard and can create the change they want to see. I want to see the future of HGA’s students filled with love and enthusiasm, eager to come to school and enjoy their time here. “The idea is not to live forever but to create something that will.” (Andy Warhol)