Pupil Voice

Capturing the “voice” of our pupils is very important to us at Mill Water School. Our pupils are listened to and know that their opinions, thoughts and feelings are important. Pupils communicate in their preferred method with skilled adults who actively listen, support communication and encourage self-advocacy. We use the term “voice” to include all forms of communication.

UN Convention on the Rights of the Child - Article 12 (respect for the views of the child)
Every child has the right to express their views, feelings and wishes in all matters affecting them, and to have their views considered and taken seriously. This right applies at all times, for example during immigration proceedings, housing decisions or the child’s day-to-day home life.

Intent

    • To ensure that our pupils have a say in school life
    • To give our pupils a meaningful way to voice their thoughts, feelings and opinions
    • To speak on behalf of themselves and their class groups
    • To develop self-advocacy skills

Implementation

    • All adults value the contribution of our pupils – they listen and respond to all forms of communication and use this to inform planning
    • Mill Water School Council meets at least once a term
    • Pupil Voice Curriculum Topic each Spring – the topic for a term chosen by class groups
    • Pupil Voice tag on Evidence for Learning to capture evidence when pupil’s views are gathered
    • Pupil Views collected for Annual Review meetings

Impact

    • Pupils feel valued and listened to
    • Pupils know their communication will be responded to
    • Pupils input can help with School development, special projects e.g. playground development, school dinners
    • Pupils involved in the Student council develop a range of skills including team work, presentation skills, listening skills, organisational skills
    • Adults in school gain a more in depth understanding of how pupils feel about all aspects of school life
    • Post Mill Water – pupils learn how to express their views, they understand that their thoughts, feelings and opinions are valuable and important. They understand that they have the right to contribute to choices about their lives.