Benefits of participation
Research and case study examples suggest that developing children and young people’s participation is potentially beneficial for individuals, organisations and communities.
Pupils who participate in decision-making report that they enjoy enhanced self-esteem and motivation, gain important personal, social and organisational skills, and become familiar with group and democratic processes.
At the organisational level, pupil involvement in decision-making may lead to better relationships, more relevant and effective policies, and better learning. In the best scenarios, pupils and adults work together as partners to ensure that their school provides the best possible learning environment for all. Pupils have an important part to play in helping their school to improve in every aspect of school life.
Pupil participation is at the heart of the School Effectiveness Framework and linked to improved pupil well-being and better learning outcomes. Learner voice also plays an important role in Estyn’s post-2010 Common Inspection Framework.
You can download here a research report on the benefits of children and young people’s participation which was carried out in Wales, and a Best Practice Guide with case studies from different settings. See also the School Councils Activity Pack, especially the activities on pages 31 and 42, which can help you to make the case for participation in your school.
You can download here some research reports on the benefits of children and young people’s participation which have been carried out in Wales, and a Best Practice Guide with case studies from different settings.
A research report published in 2010 also suggested how taking account of learners' perspective can contribute to improving learning.
Please tell us of how pupil participation has benefitted your school by e-mailing: childrenandyoungpeoplesrights@wales.gsi.gov.uk.
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