Involving Children Good Practice

A process of preparation and planning is essential to ensure the views of all children and young people are sought in a manner appropriate to the method of communication used by each child.

Views will need to be sought in a variety of ways to reflect the range of abilities of the children and the manner in which views will be expressed. Schools and settings need to help children with communication difficulties express their views through signing, use of symbols, art-work, role-play etc. Some children may wish to choose the adult who will collect their views and support them at meetings.

For children who are able to express their views using language, pictures, signing etc, the following may be appropriate:

“Dear Teacher” letter – pupil and supporter discuss what the pupil would like their teacher to know to enable them to have full access. Supporter scribes if necessary and types up, before giving to teacher/s.
The child or young person completes a questionnaire. The questionnaire should be written in language, and delivered at a level and pace, which can be understood by each individual child. Some children may also require language symbols, simple line drawings or videos or tapes to support their understanding. The questionnaire is completed prior to their review by the child or young person, supported by their key worker.
Local authorities may use independent advocates to assist children in expressing their views.

For children who express their views through their emotional responses, gestures, body language and changes in their behaviour, staff will need to collect views through observation:

A form or booklet could be used to collect the views of the child or young person on a regular basis throughout the year. These views could be presented to the review or meeting by staff working with the child.

Doncaster

Dear Teacher letter

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email: carol.waddington@doncaster.gov.uk

Doncaster

Communication passports

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email: carol.waddington@doncaster.gov.uk

East Riding

Pupil comment form

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email: joanna.stuart@eastriding.gov.uk