Principles to keep in mind to get the most out of pupil voice
Have a clear commitment to pupil participation
This includes to:
- Make a public commitment about how you'll involve pupils' views and encourage pupil participation across your school
- Communicate the benefits of it to make sure everyone in the school understands why involving pupils is important
Many schools follow the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) to embed pupil voice in their schools. You don't have to, but it's good practice to do so as explained in this archived DfE guidance. See the summary and full convention for more detail.
You can also work towards accreditation to become a Rights Respecting School.
Support pupil participation
Provide the time, space and resources for pupil participation. For example, organise circle time to discuss issues important to them or gather their views through questionnaires Provide training for staff so they can support pupil participation. For