Children and young people can offer unique perspectives on what it is like to be a pupil at Oakridge; involving them in decision-making can create meaningful change and better academic outcomes, facilitating a sense of empowerment and inclusion. A whole-school approach means listening to the voices of everyone in the school community. This includes children, young people, parents, carers, and school staff.

What is it, and why is it important?

Pupil voice in schools means a whole-school commitment to listening to all children's views, wishes and experiences. It means valuing what children and young people tell school staff about their experiences. It is a key factor in children’s mental and emotional health and well-being.

Children and young people need to be provided with meaningful opportunities to share their experiences, views and hopes about their school. Pupils need to know that expressing their views on what happens at school is safe and important. They need to know that what they say is valued and will be listened to and considered.

At Oakridge, our pupils are given a selection of different opportunities to express their opinions and thoughts through the following ways