In the Know

From the Leadership Team

Matt Brinson, Head of Senior School

Empowering our students: The importance of student voice and agency

At Kilvington, students are at the heart of our school community. Their voices, ideas and perspectives shape the culture, environment and future of our school. 

 

STUDENT VOICE AND AGENCY 

Student voice is more than just sharing opinions — it’s about fostering a culture of collaboration, respect and shared responsibility. When students have a say in their education and school environment, they become more engaged, motivated and invested in their learning. 

 

Student agency refers to the level of autonomy and power that a student experiences in the learning environment. Student voice and agency are intrinsically linked. Agency gives students the power to direct and take responsibility for their learning, creating independent and self-regulating learners. This leads to improved educational outcomes.

 

Research shows that schools that promote student agency experience increased student wellbeing, stronger school pride, and a greater sense of community. By creating a platform where students can discuss and implement ideas, we empower them to develop leadership skills, problem-solving abilities and confidence in advocating for positive change.

 

THE STUDENT FORUM

Last year, I wrote about student agency in the classroom, yet its scope extends far beyond the classroom. This year, we're excited to introduce 'The Student Forum' — a new initiative in the Senior School designed to elevate student voice and empower students to actively shape school decisions.

 

Open to all students from Years 7 to 12, The Student Forum provides a space where students can share ideas, propose school improvements and champion meaningful initiatives. Whether students have ideas to enhance school life, represent their peers or drive change, this platform will enable them to do just that!

 

With over 20 members already signed up, The Student Forum is off to a strong start. The School Captains and I held our first meeting last week, where we heard a wealth of great ideas delivered with much enthusiasm. Our School Captains have also been visiting different Mentor Groups to gather input and plan to engage with all groups by the end of Term 1.

 

STUDENT COMMITTEES

In addition to the Student Forum, we’ve launched a series of student-led committees, each focusing on a key aspect of school life. 

 

These committees, run by the School Vice-Captains and other Co-curricular Leaders with staff supervision, will offer students the chance to engage with areas they are passionate about.

 

Each committee will have met at least once by the end of this term. The committees are open to all Senior School year levels.

2025 Senior Student Committees:

  • Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee – Celebrate what makes each of us unique by organising cultural events and fostering a welcoming school environment where every student feels valued.
  • International Cultures Committee – Connect with and support international students while celebrating global perspectives and cultural diversity within our school.
  • The Saplings (Sustainability) Committee – Drive environmental initiatives, such as recycling programs, fundraisers and waste reduction strategies to create a greener school.
  • Student Connection Committee – Plan events and initiatives that promote school spirit and ensure every student feels a sense of belonging.
  • School Life and Community Service Committee – Make a difference beyond our school gates through volunteering, fundraising and community partnerships.

AMPLIFYING STUDENT VOICE ACROSS THE SCHOOL 

Looking ahead, the Senior School Leaders plan to liaise with the Junior School Leaders to shape how student voice can be amplified across all year levels. 

 

This could take place through Junior School students joining the Student Forum or the Captains from each sub-school working together to exchange ideas and strategies.

 

 Together, we can foster a school community where every student feels empowered, valued and inspired to create change.