Student reps built their problem-solving and communication skills during an off-site session at the Sweeney Hotel in Oswestry.
Our Student Council spent the day at the Sweeney Hotel in Oswestry for a professional development session, marking their first professional off-site meeting.
The meeting room was set up boardroom-style, so students could try out the kind of discussion and decision-making skills used in workplace meetings.
Students talked about issues that matter to them and their peers, from friendship and relationship challenges to college-wide topics like wellbeing activities and Student Union opening hours. They also shared thoughts about encouraging positive choices and behaviour during social time, and strong attendance at work placements.
Students took part in a team-building challenge to build the tallest structure using only spaghetti and marshmallows. The Green team won with a 40cm tower, while the Pink team’s structure collapsed at a critical moment. Alice said: “Even though our tower fell down, we all ended up working together with no-one getting angry with each other. At first everyone was working on their own ideas, but then we teamed up and worked more together.” The activity encouraged students to plan, test ideas and reflect on what worked well, reinforcing the teamwork and communication needed in their representative roles.
CJ commented that the biggest challenge was stopping his team mates from eating the marshmallows!
They also chatted about how to handle different opinions respectfully, and where to go for advice or support when they need it. As reps for their residences, campuses and work areas, Student Council members are often the first people other students speak to when something isn’t right.
The group looked at how to pin down the issue, think about why it matters, and choose the right person to speak to so it can be sorted. That might be a personal tutor, head of residence, pathway team or, where appropriate, the Principal and governors.
Problem-solving skills
Student Council member Louise added: “The session has helped me feel more confident in my problem-solving skills.”
Tab Crinson said: “This was our Student Council’s first professional off-site meeting, and they represented the college brilliantly. Thank you to every student for your professional behaviour and thoughtful comments throughout the day.”
Student Council member Louise, Horticulture rep, added: “The session has helped me feel more confident in my problem-solving skills.”
Thank you to the team at the Sweeney Hotel for providing such a lovely venue and lunch, helping to make the day a memorable experience for all involved.
