Pupil's Voice
Pupil Voice
Howard is a Rights Respecting School, which means we value and ensure the UN rights of the child are met. Article 12 states that: “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.” At Howard we want children to know that their opinion matters and is heard, and we want children to be given the opportunity to be responsible for different aspects of their school life and have an impact on how the school is run.
As a staff, we value the opinions of the children. By giving the children a voice, the children are empowered and have a sense of self-esteem and confidence. They are able to develop personal, social and communication skills through the many pupil roles that are offered.
We have a number of different opportunities for pupils to voice their opinion.
These include:
School Council
Curriculum Committee
Eco Warriors
Wellbeing Ambassadors
JTA
Once children have decided to apply for a role in a pupil group, they write a speech to explain why they would be suitable for the role. This is shared with their class or with their class teacher and peers. A private vote is then carried out by their classmates to determine who will represent them in that particular pupil group.
Over the year, an adult will support the pupil group in their role around the school, giving guidance when needed. The aim is that the children in the pupil group will lead themselves.
Subject leaders meet with the Curriculum Committee at different points throughout the year to gather pupil opinions about their subject. Minutes are collected and shared with SLT after each meeting to ensure consistency across the school.
It is important that children understand their role in pupil voice and therefore subject leaders will ensure they explain to the pupils how they will use their answers and opinions. Subject leaders will also share the outcomes of the pupil voice with the interviewed group, as well as the wider school so that all the children can see how pupil opinions are valued and used to improve and change their learning.
Pupil Voice surveys are conducted and analysed towards the end of each academic year. All pupils take the survey, giving a good overview of pupils’ views about the school. Negative opinions are taken seriously and children are met with to investigate their concerns or feelings in more detail.
The One Voice Board in the school reception area displays the views and opinions of a range of stakeholders: staff, pupils and the community.
Subject leaders use pupil voice to evaluate their subject and to make changes to their practice. Children will be able to talk about changes and things that have been put in place because of what pupils have said.
Pupil surveys are analysed and the overall picture helps us to think about priorities for the coming year.