I am asking for your support in ensuring that your pupils take part here:
https://www.childrenscommissioner.gov.uk/thebigfuture
It is vital that I hear from children and young people in every school, college and community across England. If students from your school do not participate, their experiences, views and aspirations will be absent from the national picture that will help shape future policy and decision-making.
At a time of significant change for children and young people, it is more important than ever that their voices are heard. Through The Big Future, I can take the views of your students directly to government and ensure their priorities help inform the decisions that affect their lives.
I would be grateful if you could share the survey directly with pupils through your school or college communication channels, and with parents and carers across your wider school community.
Many schools and colleges have successfully encouraged participation by completing the survey during form time, tutor periods or assemblies. To support this, I have created a slide pack that can be downloaded here:
https://www.childrenscommissioner.gov.uk/the-big-future/.
I am also inviting schools and colleges to nominate student champions to help promote the survey among their peers. Champions who generate particularly high levels of participation will receive formal recognition for their contribution to amplifying young people’s voices. This can be referenced in personal statements, CVs and future applications.
In addition, schools and colleges with the highest levels of participation will be invited to attend my final Festival of Childhood, celebrating the contributions of children and young people from across England.
To make participation as straightforward as possible, I have produced a range of supporting resources, including an introductory video, lesson materials and FAQs, all available on the The Big Future webpage.
Thank you for your support in helping ensure that every child’s voice has the chance to be heard.
Yours sincerely,