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Learners as decision makers

It is important for everyone to "have a voice, be heard, hear others, receive an answer, present an answer and build understanding together"

Participation is clearly a common practice in the City of Helsinki's Education Division. By law, the education provider must hear pupils and students with regard to decisions that have a significant effect on their position, and encourage them to become involved in their school's operations and development. One of the key aspects of education consists of enabling learners to have a say and be heard, and to take part in the school's activities.

City of Helsinki
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Overview

HundrED has selected this innovation to

City of Helsinki

2016

Established

100K

Children

1

Countries
Updated
October 2019
We meet politicians, write statements and let the adults hear how we young people feel about things. We can really affect things.

About the innovation

What is Learners as decision makers

The schools, general upper secondary schools and Stadin ammatti- ja aikuisopisto have student councils, the purpose of which is to promote opportunities to influence matters and participate. Student councilrepresentatives also sit on the school boards, contributing to the school rules and operating plans.

One of the tasks of the pupil and student councilsis to create and maintain a pleasant atmosphere and thereby help to reduce bullying. Listening to and valuing other people's opinions and respecting everyone are of primary importance. These democratic skills are learned and taught in group work throughout life.

Most schools in Helsinki have systems whereby more senior pupils support younger ones, and have various food, environmental and media groups that independently support the operating culture's development. Activities like this include reducing food waste, producing the school's social media and improving school satisfaction.

Impact & scalability

Spread of the innovation

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