New kit strengthens student voice

AUSTRALIA – A new resource kit is now available in Victoria to help student representative councils have a stronger voice in schools.

The kit will encourage students to become stronger leaders and energetic decision makers at schools throughout the state.

Represent! is a practical guide for students, teachers and principals to support and strengthen student voice through student representative councils (SRCs) at their schools. 

The kit was developed by the Victorian Student Representative Council in collaboration with the Department, and will be distributed to all secondary and P–12 schools in the state.

While the kit provides information about establishing an SRC, building teams, gaining ideas, responding to issues and organising events, it will also encourage a cross-section of students from different year levels, cultures, backgrounds and talents to join forces to become a vibrant voice for students at their school.

Dina Guest, from the Department’s Coordination and Strategy Division, said SRCs play a vital role in primary and secondary schools. “Student representative councils provide an opportunity for students to represent their peers, implement new ideas and initiatives, develop effective communication and leadership skills, as well as take an active part in decision making at their school.”

“Many schools already have enthusiastic and vibrant SRCs working well in their school and local community. However, this resource will encourage schools to look at whether their SRC is operating effectively and will provide ideas to strengthen student voice in schools.”