Working together: Listening to the voices of children and young people
In May 2008 the Department produced guidance that promotes the participation of
children and young people in decision-making in school, local authority and
related settings and provides advice on the principles and practice that
support such involvement. The guidance updated the original Working Together
guidance published in Spring 2004.
Local Authorities are required to have regard to this guidance under section 176 of the Education Act 2002 but it is for LAs, teachers and governors to decide how best to involve children and young people. The guidance recognises that giving children and young people a say in decisions that affect them can improve engagement in learning, help develop a more inclusive school environment and improve behaviour and attendance. It provides a basis for schools to decide how best to approach and enhance their existing work in this area, with examples of good practice for them to use and adapt.
The guidance reinforces many of the existing opportunities for skills development and participation including: personal and social development; Citizenship Education; and Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) education with particular reference to the Personal Wellbeing programme of study (revised curriculum Key Stage 3 and 4).
Ofsted also now gives pupils opportunities to give views about their education as part of the inspection process. It also supports Article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) which concerns giving children the rights to put forward their views and ensuring that those views are taken seriously.
The guidance is designed to be used by all staff in primary, secondary and special schools in England. It includes sections on:
- defining pupil participation
- its benefits
- key principles of participation
- turning principles into practice
- a checklist to ensure effective practice.
Copies can be obtained here.
Last updated: 03 June 2008
