Confidence, Oracy, Leadership: Supporting Disadvantaged Schools with our Debate Leaders Workshops

Following our recent update about our new UBS-supported programme earlier this month, we’re thrilled to take the next step in reaching 100 schools across the UK with targeted Debate Leaders workshops.

This initiative focuses on providing small group oracy training for students who need it most, helping 4 to 6 pupils per school build the confidence and skills to lead a class meeting. These workshops are designed to boost speaking skills, encourage participation, and support schools to embed inclusive, student-led democracy in their classrooms.

The workshop series includes three focused, one-hour sessions, scheduled on a Wednesday or Thursday that works for teachers.

We’re offering this package to schools in the most disadvantaged areas-either in IMD 1 or 2, or with over 30% of pupils eligible for Free School Meals. Thanks to UBS’s support, these schools can access a subsidised one-year membership for just £99, which includes:

 ✅ Access to our full Smart School Councils programme

 ✅ A tailored Debate Leaders Workshop for a small group of pupils

 ✅ Step-by-step resources to hold your first class meeting

Each workshop comes with a **teacher guide **and student booklets, making it simple to get started and easy for students to reflect and build on their learning.

These student leaders can go on to support class meetings beyond their own, helping to embed peer-led confidence across your school.

We know how powerful it can be when every pupil is included in meaningful, structured discussions-and this support is designed to make that possible for schools who might otherwise face barriers.

If your school is new to Smart School Councils, this is a brilliant way to get started with a clear plan, some extra support, and a big confidence boost for your students.

Already a member and want to take part? We’d love to offer the £99 package to existing eligible schools too-just complete the Debate Leaders workshop to unlock it.

Interested in learning more? Email Becky at becky@smartschoolcouncils.org.uk** **to find out how your school can benefit from this opportunity.