Smart School Councils is a teacher-led charity aiming to help every child engage and lead change in their world through democracy.
Our Programmes:
Our Core programme involves supporting 360 member schools across the world, including primary, secondary and special (SEN) schools to embed a fully-inclusive model of direct democracy and pupil voice that involves every pupil. Watch case study video.
Funded by the Mayor of London, our Every Voice programme provide targeted support to marginalised pupils (e.g looked-after) to develop the skills and confidence to lead democracy
Our Symphony Programme provides a platform for youth voice on a regional or national scale using our digital democracy tool. See examples
Our Impact:
The number of pupils involved in deliberative, democratic discussions rises from 7% to 100% in a term.
Within an academic year, an average of 10% of pupils participate in pupil-led social action. On average, 39% of those pupils have never taken part in social action before.
92% of teachers report that the programme contributes to a strong school community and pupils build an increased sense of school engagement. This is associated with greater resilience and academic performance (Glanville and Wildhagen, 2006). Pupils on Every Voice programme also show increased communication and teamwork skills (Skills Builder)
Our Achievements:
Developed a fully inclusive model of pupil voice that is easy and practical for schools to use. Schools can adopt from anywhere using our online manual with its step by step approach.
Scaled to 360 schools, including several international schools across the world. 80% of income is earned.
Secured social investment of £42,000 from the Young Foundation to build our digital democracy tool.
Implicitly named in Ofsted Reports as good practice on student leadership and personal development.
Securing our first successful bid; £20,000 from the Mayor of London
