01/09/2026
STUDENT VOICE: WHAT HELPS ME LEARN?
Every child is different, and one of the best ways we can understand what supports their learning is simply to ask them.
Children are never too young to begin having a voice and making choices about their learning. As adults, we all have preferred activities, environments and ways of doing things - and children are no different. Even our youngest students can tell or show us what they enjoy, what makes learning easier, when something feels difficult and what helps them feel ready to participate.
Student voice is an important part of creating inclusive classrooms. When students are encouraged to identify what helps them learn, they begin to understand themselves as learners and develop confidence in communicating their needs and preferences.
For one child, this might mean sitting somewhere with fewer distractions. Another might benefit from seeing an example before starting, having instructions broken into smaller steps, using a visual reminder, working with a partner or having a little extra thinking time. Some students may tell us they need movement or a short break before they are ready to learn again.
Listening to students doesn't mean they make all the decisions. Instead, their perspective becomes an important piece of information that teachers use alongside assessment, observation and conversations with families to make decisions about teaching and support. Providing meaningful choices also helps children develop independence, self-awareness and self-advocacy. Skills that become increasingly important as they grow.
We can encourage student voice at home too. Simple questions such as "What helped you learn today?", "What was tricky?", "How would you prefer to do this?" and "What could help you next time?", show children that their perspective matters.
When we listen to our students and provide opportunities for genuine choice, we strengthen their sense of agency, belonging and ownership of learning. Helping them become increasingly confident and independent learners.
Carolyn Brodie
Head of Inclusion
[email protected]
