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Major teaching union attacks student voice activities

One of the county's leading teaching unions, the NASUWT, have stated that having students on interview panels for staff 'stips teachers of their professional dignity' and is calling for the practice to be banned.

The comments were made by the union's General Secretary, Chris Keats, and have caused strong reactions from teachers, students and members of the general public. 

Josh Molloy, a 15 year old student on ESSA's National Council is one of those who disagrees with the NASUWT. Josh said "Student Voice is an integral part of building a good school community. We need to put more time into building effective student voice mechanisms, not cut back on them. Engaging young people in these processes not only builds a strong school community, its a step towards young people's involvement in the broader democratic processes."

Andrew Elliott, 18, Chair of ESSA’s National Council says that training for young people engaging in student voice is vital.

“Student Voice allows students to have a say on the matters which affect them. To ensure that students can excel through the decision-making process, training is often needed. The training that ESSA provides allows students and teachers to learn about working together effectively and productively on the same platform, to address issues that may arise in schools.

"Students and teachers often share concerns about the same issues - like student behaviour in the classroom. By working collaboratively with one another they can find mutual support which makes for a better life for everyone in school."

Rajeeb Dey, Founder of ESSA commented: "On the day a General Election has been called we must actively support ways to engage young people in democratic processes. By involving students in decision making at every level we give them first hand exposure to democracy in action and help foster a more engaged future electorate."