We understand that the children's opinions about their school are valid and need to be at the heart of our decision making. Throughout their time at Riverview there will be many occasions where children will have the opportunity to vote and for their voices to be heard.

 

All staff will model this process through asking questions and inviting children’s answers and opinions, whether it be in lessons, during assemblies, at lunchtime or in the playground all children are developing their decision making skills and learning to make informed choices and take responsibility for them.

 

Our School Council has members elected form each class and have regular meeting to represent the views of their classmates. From these views the school has been provided with insightful ideas and perspectives which have resulted in specific items being purchased and policies revised.  For example the School Council members have been gauging their classmates opinions about new playground equipment to be purchased and at the start of the academic year the council voted on how the class name and house system would work and the school leadership team acted on the children's idea.

 

Additionally, our school behaviour policy is clear that children are expected to contribute and co-operate, taking into account the views of others.  Children work hard to follow the schools ‘golden rules’ and to work as part of a team to decide upon class rules.