The new South Ayrshire Youth Council has been launched, following an election in June this year.

Elected young people were invited to meet South Ayrshire councillors and members of the Executive Leadership Team to participate in a variety of activities at the launch at County Buildings in Ayr.

The pupils spent time reviewing statements from earlier consultations with young people from across South Ayrshire.

They then worked together to agree on the key priorities to take forward from the consultation and proposed solutions to any issues surrounding them.

The Youth Council was elected on June 20, with 2,558 young people across South Ayrshire turning out to cast their votes.

Young people who live, study, or work in South Ayrshire were encouraged to sign up as candidates and design their own campaigns - either through posters, videos, or PowerPoints.

Some 53 candidates stood and 25 were elected by their peers as members of the new Youth Council. They range in age from S1 school pupils, all the way up to school leavers of 21 years of age.

The elected candidates are:

Ayr Academy

  • Blair Johnstone S6
  • Kara Nelson S6

Belmont Academy

  • Anakin McMillan S2
  • Ewan Clark S4

Carrick Academy

  • Tynam Baird S2
  • Katie White S2

Girvan Academy

  • Declan Griffin S4
  • Aicha May Boudial S6

Kyle Academy

  • Jenna Steele S2
  • Jack Beard S5

Marr College

  • Timur Zinchenko S3
  • Itai Ben Horesh S3

Prestwick Academy

  • Lauchlan Mclean S3
  • Alex Alexander S4

Southcraig

  • Brian Farrell S6
  • Kieran Mitchell Gordon S5

Queen Margaret Academy

  • Ben Clifford S2
  • Sarah Wright S2

Virtual School

  • Aaryn Hughes S4
  • Kayla Hughes S3

Over 16, School leavers

  • Beth Barry
  • Bethany Mclean
  • Kai Newall
  • Martin Calder

One pupil was also elected from Invergarven School. Additionally, four representatives from the Primary 7 age group will be appointed by the Youth Council in the new 2024/25 term.

 The group of young people will have the opportunity to get involved in making decisions that affect people within their age group and voice the needs of their community.

Participation will also allow the young people to develop their communication and leadership skills, get involved in planning youth events, and meet new people.

Councillor William Grant, Education Portfolio Holder, said: “Its brilliant to see young people from across South Ayrshire taking an active role in representing their peers and driving change.

"There’s also an opportunity to gain valuable experiences and learn skills that could shape their futures!”