Timi Champions head to Westminster for first ever forum

The newly selected Timi Champions visited the Houses of Parliament, enjoying a guided tour, and then took part in a workshop, led by The Speakers Trust, on how to deliver an eloquent speech. The aim of the day was to build the students’ confidence and cultural capital in order to help them fulfil their roles as student leaders.

These student leaders are called Timi Champions after a St Mark's Academy student who challenged the Trust to fully value students’ voices and ideas. They all sit on the governing bodies of their schools, which are known as Anthem Community Councils. 

Attending the first Timi Champion Forum last week, Timi said: “It’s been inspiring to see what the Trust is doing for the student voice, the fact that they are giving us a platform to speak is amazing.”

Here's what some of the other students had to say about their day:

Emily, who is in Year 6 at Boston West Academy, said: “It’s been a really good day, having the chance to spend time with people from school and having a really nice experience. We learnt lots of new things about speaking, and I understand it more. It will help us build up confidence over time.”

Beatrix, a Year 5 student at JKPS, said: “It was a day full of learning. I was surprised that Parliament wasn’t more modern. I found it interesting to learn about votes for women.”

Amber, who is in Year 7 at Queensbury Academy, said: “I loved the experience of visiting Parliament, especially after the General Election, and seeing where the action really happens - it was awesome, and the architecture was beautiful."

Her fellow Timi Champion, Zac, from Year 10, added: “I’m really interested in politics, and it was eye-opening to see where it all happens. The Speakers Trust workshop helped me to think on the spot. As a society, I think we are prone to planning things, but it’s good to be sharp and quick thinking. I also really enjoyed working with the primary school-age children. They’re very cute, and they see the world from a different perspective.”

Anthem CEO Mohsen Ojja said: “The decisions we make in our trust are now enriched by the insights and perspectives of our Timi Champions, who have been selected by their peers to represent their respective student bodies. As ambassadors of change, ensuring that the student voice is heard and acted upon, it is fitting to bring them all together in London for a trip to Parliament and for a workshop with The Speakers Trust.

“It has been a pleasure to meet them all on this special day and discuss their vision for the future. We look forward to working with our Timi Champions as we embrace their challenge, creativity and ambition to drive progress.”