Children, parents and staff have many opportunities for their voices to be heard at Harrietsham Church of England Primary school. Democracy is central to how we operate.
An obvious example is our School Action Squad. The election of the School Action Squad members reflects our British electoral system and demonstrates democracy in action: candidates make speeches, pupils consider characteristics important for an elected representative, pupils vote in secret using ballot boxes etc. Made up of two representatives from each class, the School Action Squad meets regularly to discuss issues raised by the different classes and to make decisions on wider school issues such as our Behaviour Policy. The School Action Squad genuinely effect change within our school.
Other examples of ‘pupil voice’ are:
Children have input into our interview process through giving lesson feedback;
Children are fundamental in devising the behaviour, curriculum and assessment policies;
Using Pupil Feedback forms, children are asked to respond and reflect on teaching and learning;
Children help to raise money for their class and decide together where to spend that money;
The children have been involved in wider community projects;
Our children help plan their learning for their school topics;
Through our ethos, our entire staff know our children very well and continue to form positive relationships with families;
Our children are key in showing our new families and potential candidates around the school.
Examples of ‘parent voice’ are:
Parent Feedback Forms;
Parent View;
Parent Questionnaires;
Open door policy with regular contact with class teachers;
Parent evenings.
Examples of ‘staff voice are:
Contributions towards the school behaviour, assessment and learning policies;
Staff ideas to develop our curriculum;
Staff questionnaires;
Staff meetings, LSA meetings, senior Leadership meetings;
Performance management;
Development of School Plan.
Pupils are always listened to by adults and are taught to listen carefully and with concern to each other, respecting the right of every individual to have their opinions and voices heard. We encourage pupils to take ownership of, not only their school, but also their own learning and progress. This encourages a heightened sense of both personal and social responsibility and is demonstrated on a daily basis by our pupils.