Freedom to Grow: Children's Perspectives of Student Voice

Abstract

This article explores the power of student voice, in recognition of the child's right to be treated as a capable, competent social actor involved in the education process. In this study, student voice is considered in the light of improving students' engagement and personal and social development at the primary school level. It emphasizes the importance of soliciting and respecting students' voice through their involvement as individuals in collective decision-making and governance as part of a “Students' Parliament.” The aim is to understand how children view their roles and opportunities to be involved in making decisions about their own learning and about the wider school community. The study has significant implications for educators about ways of effectively and respectfully engaging students in matters that are important to them, which in turn has a positive impact on students' engagement, motivation, and individual development.