Tools for Schools
The 2015 SEN code of practice placed a stronger emphasis on engagement with children and young people in order to address any emerging difficulties, identify what is working well, what needs to be improved and to agree outcomes to work towards.
Giving children and young people a greater voice in planning and reviewing the support they receive can be empowering and increase impact and realise longer term aspirations.
The voice of the child is also a fundamental human right as reflected in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Every child has the right to express their views, feelings and wishes in all matters affecting them, and to have their views considered and taken seriously. This right applies at all times, for example during immigration proceedings, housing decisions or the child’s day-to-day home life.
Article 12 (respect for the views of the child)
Every child must be free to express their thoughts and opinions and to access all kinds of information, as long as it is within the law.
Article 13 (freedom of expression)
Last updated 15 September 2020