Community

Building a sense of belonging, empowerment and civic pride

This strand focuses on initiatives that help pupils build stronger relationship with their peers and teachers, as well as develop their understanding of their communities outside of school and the ways in which they can make positive contributions to them.

We want to encourage pupils to build a deep sense of pride and connection to the worlds in which they live. It is a strand that seeks to empower our students to view themselves as changemakers and future leaders.

The William Ellis School motto of ‘Rather Use Than Fame’ sits at the heart of this strategic area and we believe it continues to be a strong message in the modern world. Having a sense of belonging to something bigger than yourself is an integral part of being a human. We want to empower our students to recognise and value the power of their communities, and have the vision and ability to bring change and improvements to them.

Our aim is to work with the school and students on existing programs – and develop new initiatives that:

  • Support students to develop their understanding of what community means to them and the benefits it brings to their lives

  • Create films, documentaries and other projects that help the students explore these topics and inform the world of their perspectives

  • Open up opportunities for pupils to become involved with some of the outstanding organisations across Camden and North London that are working to effect change within their communities

  • Develop the skills and confidence to identify challenges within the communities they are positive about and think through how they can organise to be a part of positive change

  • Help improve awareness in London of the work of the school and its students – and build positive relationships that lead to effective collaboration

A core focus within this strand of work over the 2025/26 academic year is the More Than a Playground fundraising campaign to redevelop the school outdoor spaces. The playground area serves the wider community at weekends and during holidays as well as offering essential benefits to students during term-time. Students have been involved in the design stages of this redevelopment, helping shape the staff and architect’s understanding of the importance of the playground in building a space that works for all members of the community. They will also have a role to play in helping design and deliver fundraising initiatives that engage our supporters and neighbours to help the school achieve the redevelopment.

Do you have an opportunity that would benefit from the involvement of William Ellis students?

Do you have a great idea for an opportunity or program that will help open up opportunities for our students to develop their sense of what community means to them?

Please do get touch with us via the Contact Us function and we’ll be in touch as soon as possible