Learning from students: Practical advice for enhancing engagement
In order to create an inclusive and supportive educational environment, nurturing student voice is crucial.?Actively listening to students’ practical advice provides valuable insights into their needs and perspectives. At the first event of our events series “Listening to the voice of young people”, we heard from a panel of young people about their experiences in school and how student voice can be listened to.
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In the event, it was evident that the panel had practical advice for how schools can enhance engagement. Jade Barnett, a youth leader for the Prince’s Trust, emphasised the lack of mental health sessions in schools, stating, “Never did we ever really have mental health sessions about anything on self-confidence, motivation, determination, self-assurance. Those weren’t implemented in school for us.” This itself highlights the importance of incorporating mental health and wellbeing topics into the school curriculum and timetable. Additionally, Ruby, another student, stressed the rising issue of crisis situations and the need for crisis intervention skills, stating, “Even now I still want crisis intervention skills, because it’s increasingly becoming a rising issue.”
To enhance student engagement and wellbeing, ongoing sessions and workshops that address diverse needs are essential. Jade emphasised the need for continuous support, stating, “This should be an ongoing thing, not a one-time thing. It shouldn’t all just be down to one Pastoral Support to support your young people.” This implies the importance of properly training and giving support to teachers so they have the understanding of how they can focus on wellbeing, self-confidence, and self-belief. By providing consistent support, schools can foster a supportive environment where students feel empowered to navigate their challenges.
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Involving students in the design process of workshops and sessions is key to creating effective interventions. Jade suggested, “Even getting your young people to help design a workshop for wellbeing or self-confidence or self-belief… those are ways that can be implemented.” By incorporating student perspectives, educators can develop sessions that resonate with their experiences and address their specific needs. This approach promotes a sense of ownership and empowerment among students, allowing them to contribute to their own learning journey.
Implementing these suggestions may present challenges related to time and resources. However, the long-term benefits are invaluable. According to?statistics by the Mental Health Foundation, approximately 50% of mental health conditions begin by age 14, highlighting the urgency of addressing mental health in schools. By prioritising mental health and wellbeing, schools create an environment where students feel supported, understood, and equipped with the necessary tools to navigate their challenges. Regular surveys, feedback sessions, and open discussions can further ensure that student voices are heard and their perspectives are integrated into decision-making processes. This is what Tranquiliti offers, with a weekly check-in, personalised guidance and the ability to vote on class discussions.
Ruby’s plea for crisis intervention skills and recognition of neurodiversity within the curriculum resonates with the current challenges students face. According to?recent studies, the prevalence of crises and traumatic experiences among young individuals is increasing. Moreover,?neurodiverse individuals?are more likely to be exposed to trauma and suffer from conditions like PTSD. By incorporating crisis intervention training and education on mental health within the curriculum, schools can provide support and resources to students who have experienced trauma. Additionally, addressing the unique needs of neurodiverse individuals fosters an inclusive educational experience.
Nurturing student voice requires a proactive and collaborative approach. By actively listening to students’ practical advice, involving them in the design process, and prioritising mental health and neurodiversity, schools can create an environment that values and amplifies student perspectives. By addressing crisis intervention skills and incorporating mental health education, schools can support students facing crises and trauma. Understanding the unique needs of neurodiverse individuals and fostering an inclusive educational experience is vital. By embracing these strategies, educators can empower students and drive positive change in their academic and personal lives.
Thank you to our panel for contributing to our first event.