Pupil Voice is very important in decisions that involve and affect them.
How do we consult with pupils and take account of their opinions and needs?
We have a wide range of ways to consult with pupils and take aboard their opinions, experiences and needs. The two main methods at this time are pupil focus groups and whole-school consultations.
Pupil participation can happen in a variety of ways. Some of these are:
- Fundraising, links with charities and with the wider community
- Improvements to the school environment (e.g. school buildings, playground, toilets)
- Involvement with planning extra-curricular activities
- Involvement with planning, reviewing and implementing school policies
- Involvement with School Development Plan
- Consultation mechanisms such as surveys and suggestion boxes
Benefits of Pupil Participation
- Improved pupil engagement and its impact on well-being, behaviour and learning
- Improved pupil-staff and pupil-pupil relationships
- Policies are based on the needs and suggestions of pupils and are therefore effective
- More inclusive schools, where all pupils are encouraged and supported to contribute
- Increased opportunity for pupils to develop personal, social and communication skills.