Engaging with stakeholders

Engaging with learners supports improvement when:

• it is conducted in a safe, supportive environment where all learners involved feel confident to communicate their views openly and honestly

• it takes into account the views of as wide a range of learners as possible

• all learners and staff involved have a clear understanding of the scope and purpose of the activity

• the style of communication is suitable for the age, ability and language of all learners

• barriers to communication are addressed sensitively and effectively

• provides a learner’s perspective of strengths and opportunities for improvement in relation to specific aspects of a school’s work

• analysis of learners’ views and actions taken in light of their feedback are communicated clearly to all stakeholders

Engaging with school staff supports improvement when:

• all activities are conducted in a safe, respectful, trusting, mutually supportive atmosphere

• leaders promote openness and honesty and communicate clearly that the views of all staff are valued

• a variety of different processes are used that take into account the views of all staff

• all activities focus clearly on learning and well-being (of both staff and learners)

• all participants have a clear understanding of the scope and purpose of the activity

• it promotes professional reflection and discussion and informs professional learning

• provides a staff perspective of strengths and opportunities for improvement in relation to specific aspects of a school’s work

• actions taken in light of their feedback are communicated clearly to all staff

Engaging with the school community supports improvement when:

• activities are selected carefully in light of the school’s context

• it helps the school to understand its own context more clearly

• it helps the school to overcome challenges presented by its context

• the school is active in seeking the views of any ‘hard to reach’ groups in its community

• it enables the community to understand why the school works in the way it does, promoting dialogue and challenge

• it enables the community to contribute to learners’ progress and well-being

• it enables the school to access specialist or support services

• provides a community perspective of strengths and opportunities for improvement in relation to specific aspects of a school’s work

• actions taken in light of their feedback are communicated clearly to the school community

Engaging with stakeholders is an integral part of developing the school as an effective learning organisation.

Interactive activities

The following resources, produced as part of the professional learning journey, provide case study examples from schools where they have engaged effectively with stakheolders as part of their developments for the new curriculum.