The Guardian Convention
The Guardian Convention is one of the most important events in the school calendar.
The Cobham Hall ethos is based on the pillars of Round Square - one of which is democracy - and what better way to learn about democracy than electing your own Head Girl!
Girls in Group 6 are invited to apply for the position of Guardian (Head Girl), Deputy Guardians and House Captains. Applications must be submitted in writing to the Headmistress, and be supported by two written references - one from a member of staff and the other from an external referee.
The whole school assembles at the Convention, and the candidates for Guardian join the Headmistress on the platform. Each candidate in turn is then given 3 minutes in which to set out her ideas for the coming year, introduce her Deputies and emphasising the personal qualities which she hopes will get her elected. Each of her candidates for Deputy Guardian then has 2 minutes in which to clarify why they are supporting this Guardian candidate.
After each team has put forward their case for election, the Convention is thrown open to questions and answers from the floor. The candidates have no prior knowledge of the questions, so good preparation and quick thinking are essential if candidates are to acquit themselves well at this stage.
Candidates for House Captain are also invited to address the assembled school for 2 minutes to explain their ideas and plans for their House.
After the Convention, the Guardian candidates are taken out by the Headmistress for a well-earned lunch while the school turns to the serious business of voting. Ballot boxes and voting slips are provided for staff and students and scutineers ensure confidentiality.
When all votes have been counted and checked, the result is announced by the Headmistress over the school's public address system.