At Chatsworth, we believe that children should have opportunities to share their views, contribute ideas and play an active part in school life.

As an infant school, we introduce our children to the principles of pupil voice and democracy in an age-appropriate way. Children learn that their opinions matter, while also learning to listen to others, consider different points of view and work together as part of a community.

School Council

Our School Council gives children the opportunity to represent their classmates and contribute to discussions about school life.

Children choose representatives from their classes, introducing them to the idea of voting and representation. School Council representatives gather ideas and views from their classmates and bring these to council meetings, where they discuss what is working well and share suggestions for the school.

Representatives then feed back to their classes, helping children to understand how their individual voices can contribute to wider discussions and decisions.

Eco-Council

Our Eco-Council gives children the opportunity to think about how we care for our school and the environment.

Eco-Council members help to raise awareness of environmental issues and encourage our school community to make positive choices. Through practical activities and discussions, children begin to understand the part they can play in looking after their immediate environment and the wider world.

Learning to Use Their Voice

Pupil voice at Chatsworth extends beyond our councils. Children are encouraged to express their ideas and opinions through class discussions, conversations with adults, questionnaires and other opportunities to contribute to school life.

Through these experiences, our children begin to learn how to use their voice positively and responsibly. They learn about:

• Sharing their ideas and expressing their views

• Listening to and respecting the views of others

• Voting and making choices

• Representing others

• Taking responsibility

• Working together to make a difference

These early experiences help children understand that their views are valued and introduce them, in an age-appropriate way, to the principles of democracy, representation and active citizenship.