The importance of enabling children to have a voice in decisions regarding their life and learning is central to SEND policy. Children's participation should be encouraged in all decision-making processes including setting individual targets, support plans and contributing to assessments and reviews. Schools and settings need to promote a culture of ensuring pupil voice across a range of issues and children need to be taught and supported to contribute appropriately and effectively.
- Research suggests that listening to the views of children with SEND is highly beneficial for all. It increases a child's motivation, independence, perception of personal control and progress.
- When children are part of decision-making processes, they can provide appropriate information about their skills and abilities and offer their views about possible interventions; enhancing the likelihood of successful outcomes.
- The SEND Code of Practice makes it very clear that children's views should be sought throughout any process of planning or assessment; every APDR cycle is an opportunity to enable the child to be involved in decision making. It is important for children's views, wishes and feelings to be carefully considered and clearly incorporated into all planning around their needs.
- It is up to the adults to ensure children see the impact of their contribution, as many children become frustrated when their voice appears to be ignored.