A group of head students have been congratulated on their new roles by a local MP and district councillor.

The 16 Year 11 students from Cottenham Village College (CVC) were welcomed into their positions by Ely and East Cambridgeshire MP Charlotte Cane and district councillor Eileen Wilson.

The students have been appointed to the college's leadership panel to help support school improvement.

At the event on Thursday, Liberal Democrat MP Ms Cane introduced the students to the realm of political leadership and engagement.

Councillor Wilson shared opportunities within the local council for the students to learn about implementing change at a local level.

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The students applied for their positions by writing letters explaining their suitability for the roles, including their involvement in extracurricular activities such as Explorers, Guides, Cadets, sports and community groups.

After being shortlisted, they demonstrated their leadership skills during the Year 6/7 transition period by aiding groups of pupils in their move to secondary school.

The head students will continue working on various projects throughout the academic year.

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So far this term, they have been focusing on improving recognition of students through rewards and collaborating with CVC’s partner school in Ukraine to establish connections between secondary schools in different countries.

Zoe Andrews, principal of Cottenham Village College, said: “Student leadership is an important aspect of life at Cottenham Village College and our diverse panel of head students works with our school council to support changes in the school community.

“We are delighted to appoint such a talented group of Year 11 students to this important position within our school body.

“Having spoken with the students at length, I have heard some fantastic ideas about the ways that they would like to get involved in school life and I am excited to see the impact that they make over the course of the academic year.”