Cost of the school day voice network
New equity network for children and young people taking action on school costs
Cost of the School Day Voice is a new network of children and young people taking action on school costs and having their say on poverty and education policy. The network is part of Cost of the School Day at Child Poverty Action Group, supported by the Scottish Government’s Scottish Attainment Challenge Programme.
At Cost of the School Day, we know that young people care about fairness, rights and equity and have great ideas about making school more inclusive. Cost of the School Day exists to make sure that all children and young people feel included and ready to learn at school no matter what their income. Learners’ voices are fundamental to making this happen. This new network will promote the work of equity groups already making big changes in their schools and support new groups from P5-S6 to form and get involved.
“If we’re not heard then we can’t make a difference.” (S4 learner)
Any school in Scotland can join the Cost of the School Day Voice network. Children and young people taking part will have access to lots of great activities and opportunities over the year – learning about campaigning and awareness raising, developing resources, taking part in the Voice online meet up with other groups and trying out lots of specially designed activities. As groups develop, there will be the chance to showcase nationally what they are doing to challenge poverty and make their schools even more inclusive.
This is a great chance for children and young people to make a difference and take the lead on equity in their schools. We would be delighted if you could share this sign-up link for the Cost of the School Day Voice network with schools in your area, colleagues and any of your contacts who might be interested in getting involved.
“I suppose it’s about making sure school costs don’t get in the way of making sure everyone can feel equal.” (S5 learner)
“Poverty is a serious issue and the kids can cope with talking about it actually, better than we can. If you give them the platform and give them the space you’ll be blown away by what they’re able to do and achieve.” (Teacher)
When schools sign up for the network, they’ll receive a welcome pack with everything they need to get their groups started, including a great opportunity for school communities to take part in the Cost of the School Day Big Question during Challenge Poverty Week this October.
Kirsty Campbell, our Cost of the School Day Participation Officer, is available to support your work and answer any questions at kcampbell@cpagscotland.org.uk. The rest of the Cost of the School Day team is also on hand at CoSDVoice@cpagscotland.org.uk. If you are part of a youth organisation or are working with children and young people outwith school and would like to get involved, please get in touch.
