Student voice is a core component of our work at MacKillop Education. It can be observed in many aspects of our school environment and in interactions between staff and students.
At each school we have held numerous student voice forums for students wanting to share feedback and be a part of the important decision-making processes for school improvement. An example of this is at our Geelong School in Victoria, where the process began with willing students from the Primary, Secondary and VCAL programs, sharing thoughts about safety at the school and what could be done to further improve and ensure safety for all students.
The students’ honest feedback about strengths and areas for improvement led to a staff and leadership forum to further support the process of improvement. Student ideas for ground improvements were discussed, including many specific ideas for playground equipment being explored.
Following this process, a small group of students actively participated in the process to turn their ideas into reality. Four secondary students worked with staff to identify the necessary equipment which would be helpful for student emotional regulation, as well as support positive social interaction and safety in the school. The group actively supported the seeking of funds by writing a letter requesting support and outlining their vision.
After lots of hard work, planning and anticipation, the students are very excited to begin to see their project become a reality, as work commences at the school.