Giving young people a say. Opportunities for participation in school life.
What is participation
"Participation is about the chance to have an influence - it's not just about having a say".
It's giving young people the chance to be active citizens.
The benefits of participation
Participation prepares young people for their futures, and can offer many benefits, which lead to:
- improved communication
- developed negotiation skills
- improved decision making skills
- a sense of responsibility
- the ability to work and socialise with different peer groups
- raised self-esteem
- improved understanding of democratic processes
- a sense of empowerment for pupils
- enhanced learning
Participation can allow pupils/young people to have responsibility for their own learning, with freedom to decide on the level of the tasks they approach.
Developing a more participative, culture allows schools and organisations to be more responsive to young people's needs, improve relationships between staff and pupils and develop links with their local communities.
These activities can also help address specific aspects of the Citizenship curriculum.
Research and Ofsted evidence has shown that participative schools have better attendance, behaviour and exam results.
Download Tips to Help Teachers and Areas to Consider (Word doc)