Chilton Town Council
Junior Town Council
Empowering young voices in our community
Introduction
The Junior Town Council of Chilton is an initiative that brings together pupils from Years 5 and 6 at Chilton Academy. Meeting monthly at the Town Council Offices, these young councillors learn about civic responsibility, teamwork and community leadership.
The programme gives children the opportunity to understand how local decisions are made, how meetings are run, and how they can help shape ideas that matter to young people in Chilton.
Structure and leadership
The Junior Town Council is led by the children themselves. A Chairperson is chosen, who also serves as the Junior Mayor. Meetings follow a formal structure so that pupils can learn how councils work in practice.
Led by young councillors
Pupils take an active role in discussions, help shape agendas and contribute their own ideas and priorities.
Formal meeting process
Meetings help children learn how to listen, debate respectfully, make decisions and work together as a group.
Building confidence
Taking on leadership roles helps children develop confidence in speaking, planning and representing others.
Issues discussed
Each session includes updates on current topics from the adult Town Council, alongside issues raised directly by the children. This makes sure young people have the chance to share their views on local matters that affect them.
Topics can include ideas for playground improvements, youth activities, community events, and other suggestions that would benefit children and families in the area.
The Junior Town Council helps ensure that young voices are heard and considered as part of the wider community conversation.
Budget and community support
The Junior Town Council manages its own budget to support worthwhile activities and fund items that benefit young people in Chilton. This gives pupils hands-on experience of making choices, setting priorities and understanding responsibility in public life.
By deciding how money should be used, the children learn about fairness, planning and the importance of investing in projects that have a positive impact on their community.
Impact and future
Through this programme, children develop confidence, leadership skills and a deeper understanding of local government. They gain practical experience in speaking up, listening to others and working together to improve their community.
The Junior Town Council is helping to shape the future of Chilton by encouraging young people to take an active interest in civic life — one meeting at a time.
