Student Board hopes to bring new ideas to the table

Wednesday 07 April 2021

A newly-formed student advisory group wants to use the overlap between business and education in order to "achieve big things for our island".

The Student Advisory Board is a group of young people from across the island whose aim is to "positively discuss Guernsey’s economic, environmental and social issues" and to use those conversations to inspire new ideas and solutions.

13 representatives from across the Guernsey College of Further Education, Elizabeth College, Blanchelande College, The Guernsey Grammar School and Ladies College will meet monthly over the next year, with the aim of presenting their findings to Guernsey's Government early in 2022.

The group has been organised by POS Interiors and Bright Futures. John Hibbs from POS said businesses have a responsibility to work more closely with the future leaders of tomorrow.

"POS and Bright Futures believe that the overlap between business and education should be increased," he said. "We welcome the opportunity to work with 13 bright and enthusiastic students who have self selected to join the SAB.”

SAB member Jude Klement said that early discussions have been positive. 

“John Hibbs has already begun to coach us on economic systems, how the world is actually amazing (despite the intense problems we are told by the news) and the important role that trust plays in a functioning society, emphasising its positive influence on business.”

The SAB will also be taking inspiration from local businesses, and are currently lining up meetings throughout the year with local leaders to gain a wider understanding of the island and how it works.

“It really feels like we’re building a team of driven, focused, representative individuals looking to make a difference for young people here on the island," SAB member Angus Wilson commented. 

While the SAB is only at the beginning of its journey, member Cat Lees is hoping the group can follow in the footsteps of role models like Isaac Newton, Mary Wollstonecraft and Teddy Roosevelt in making a real societal difference.

“Whilst appearing small and insignificant just like them, we are coming together to achieve big things for our island," she said. 

Pictured top: The newly-formed Student Advisory Board.