Developing pupil leadership goes beyond consultation and pupil voice. At Rushen Primary School, Suzanne Owens promoted an approach that encouraged pupils to take meaningful responsibility, contribute to decision-making and play an active role within the school community. By moving from participation to ownership, schools can strengthen confidence, belonging and engagement while building a more inclusive and collaborative culture.

Suzanne Owens, education leader and former Headteacher at Rushen Primary School, Isle of Man, explores how distributed leadership involving pupils, teachers and support staff can improve school culture and long-term outcomes.