Who did we want to get involved and why?

Overview

People who hadn't given their view on education in the past are exactly who we wanted to hear from. We wanted learners to be at the centre of our discussion and in particular we wanted to hear from people who do not normally have their voices heard in the education system.

In his recent report, Putting Learners at the Centre: Towards a Future Vision for Scottish Education, Ken Muir made several recommendations.

The first recommendation was to hold this National Discussion. The second recommendation says:

"Invitations to shape this vision should be made to all partners and stakeholders, including all learners, teachers, practitioners, parents and carers. It will be important to ensure that 'narrative privilege' is accorded to all who have an interest and not just key educational bodies, with opportunities for all to debate and challenge emerging suggestions."

In the report, Ken Muir said it was important to place "the learner at the centre of all decisions" and "the needs of children and young people at the centre of any future education system in Scotland." This means that we really wanted to hear from children and young people in the National Discussion. Their voices and opinions were vital.

As the recommendation above notes too, the voices of others who are not usually heard in decision-making was needed. This includes parents and carers who have a unique perspective on, and insight into, the needs of children and young people. It also includes teachers and other education practitioners who work directly with children and young people, and have decades of experience to share.

It shouldn't just be educational bodies making decisions which affect us all. Everyone who is interested in the future of education should have a say.