Jersey’s School Council Network is taking steps to ensure that they work to keep kids digitally safe. They’re preparing for longer meetings down the road where both PCS primary and secondary school councils will be represented. The network, known for its student-led activism, seeks to influence educational policy firsthand by working directly with the government. We expect Richard Vibert, Minister for Children and Families, and Malcom Ferey, Assistant Minister for Children and Families, to participate in this groundbreaking event. They’ll be leading the way and setting the pace along with Rob Ward, a key architect of the initiative.
Meetings will be scheduled no more than six times annually. This new format provides students with a unique opportunity to present their creativity, ideas, and concerns directly to decisionmakers. This internal structure helps to actively respond to and include young people’s experiences and perspectives in the process of developing educational policy. It especially hones in on Jersey’s new Play Plan. The Play Plan prioritizes the immediate needs and lived experiences of students. It gives them the tools to make their voices heard as they continue to cultivate equitable, inclusive, and anti-racist educational environments.
Rob Ward emphasized the importance of this responsibility, stating, “a big responsibility but a fantastic opportunity.” His dedication to building collaborative relationships with students embodies the network’s vision of investing in young people’s leadership.
The resulting change in the role of students within the School Council Network has been dramatic, turning the School Council Network into a much more “powerful, student-led forum. Beyond elevating the value of student feedback, this shift serves to further amplify the collaborative spirit that made this initiative possible. Vibert and Ferey’s involvement underscores the government’s dedication to listening to the younger generation as they navigate complex issues like digital safety.
Ward expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming discussions, noting, “I’m excited to see the ideas and leadership you’ll bring, and I look forward to working with you through the School Council Network.” This is a popular sentiment among student participants who are excited to share their perspective and experience.
The Jersey government takes a hands-on approach to student engagement during these meetings. They envision an educational system that would actually meet the monumental challenges that young people today are facing. The School Council Network continues to be a vital platform for promoting dialogue between students and policymakers, ensuring that educational policies remain relevant and effective.
