Year 12 students, Michelle and Tasneem, represented Shireland Collegiate Academy at the Fair Education Youth Summit in London, an event that brought together 200 young people from across the UK.
Hosted by the Fair Education Alliance and led by its Youth Steering Group, the Summit gave attendees a platform to influence policy, develop skills for social action, and connect with peers. Students also took part in workshops on public speaking, mental health, content creation, and using AI for social good, alongside policy sessions covering SEND inclusion, the National Youth Strategy, and votes at 16.
Reflecting on the experience, Tasneem commented: “It was amazing, I enjoyed it a lot. I would definitely encourage others to go.”
Michelle added: “We have a voice, limitless and unrelenting, that can provoke change, and as long as we can implement this mentality into our everyday interactions, and begin to move and speak with intentionality, then our growth is inevitable.”
The summit highlighted the importance of youth voices in shaping the future of education. By participating, Michelle and Tasneen not only developed new skills and built connections with peers across the country, but also demonstrated the powerful impact young people can have on tackling educational inequality.
Academy Principal Thomas Daly said: “We’re incredibly proud that our students took part in this amazing opportunity. It allows young people to shape and use their talents and ideas to make a real, tangible difference, not just for themselves, but for their peers, community, and the wider education system. Their leadership, curiosity, and determination to create positive change embody the values we nurture at Shireland every day.”
The Youth Steering Group is made up of 26 young people aged 14-24 which campaigns to reduce inequality in education, support youth-led action, and advise decision makers.
The Fair Education Alliance, a cross-sector coalition, works to tackle educational inequity across the UK. By connecting policy and initiatives, the organisation aims to create lasting change across schools, communities, and the wider education system.
Shireland Collegiate Academy looks forward to supporting more students to take part in similar opportunities and contribute to positive change in their communities.
