Pupil Voice

Learner Voice

‘In schools and early learning and childcare settings, learner participation is core to a good education. As part of all educational experience, it is young people’s right to have a say in matters that affect them’.

Learner Participation in Educational Settings (3-18) Education Scotland

The Importance of Pupil Voice

Pupil voice is a fundamental aspect of Scottish education, aligning with the values of Curriculum for Excellence (CfE) and Getting It Right for Every Child (GIRFEC). It ensures that children and young people have a say in their learning experiences, fostering a sense of ownership, engagement, and responsibility. By actively listening to pupils, educators can create more inclusive, responsive, and effective learning environments. Encouraging pupil voice supports the development of key skills such as communication, critical thinking, and leadership while reinforcing children’s rights as outlined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), which Scotland has committed to incorporating into law.

Techniques for Promoting Pupil Voice

Secondary School (S1-S6)

• Student Parliaments & Focus Groups – Encouraging discussion on school improvement and policy.

• Digital Surveys & Feedback Forms – Using technology to capture student opinions efficiently.

• Student Parliaments & Focus Groups – Encouraging discussion on school improvement and policy.

• Digital Surveys & Feedback Forms – Using technology to capture student opinions efficiently.

• Student-Led Learning – Allowing pupils to take charge of aspects of lessons, projects, or extracurricular activities.

• Debates & Forums – Encouraging critical thinking and giving students a platform to discuss real-world issues.

• Senior Student Leadership Roles – Prefects, head students, and house captains take on active leadership and represent their peers.

Embedding pupil voice in Scottish education enhances engagement, personal development, and school improvement. By using age-appropriate strategies, educators can ensure all learners, from Early Years to Secondary, feel heard, valued, and empowered in their educational journey.