We are Change Makers – Children as Leaders

“The old expression “children should be seen and not heard” suggests that, not that long ago, children’s opinions and wishes were not welcomed or valued. Important discussions had to be left to adults. Today, thanks to the amazing work of children and their advocates and efforts by many organisations supporting their participation, we know that children are not only capable of understanding complex situations, but they are also able to trigger important discussions, actions and movements to improve the world.” Dr. Anne Crowley

Children are our future leaders. What can we do to provide a positive foundation for our children to grow as a friend, a learner and as a leader of the community? Highlighting key attributes and markers, we focus on the question of whether leaders are born or made. How can leadership in children be developed to consider and address community and societal issues as ethical informed citizens?

This two-day course brings together the experiences of children involved in an international inquiry into children as leaders. Come along to be inspired by professional colleagues and meet like-minded people!

• Explore what participation and leadership by children means and looks like, and how this connects to Inquiry Based Learning.
• Observe participation and childhood leadership in practice through learning walks at Cadoxton Primary School and through dialogue with children and colleagues.
• Learn directly from the children about an exchange with the International School of Amsterdam that empowered them as leaders – We are Change Makers!
• Consider the evidenced-based theory that underpins how and where leaders are created and identify the implications and next steps for both children and adults.
• Increase your professional expertise as a member of a participatory and empowering learning organisation.
• Bring your own school-based project to life based on the experiences and information shared.

 Delegates attending the course comprise of two adults and two children (Year 5)* from each participating school. They form a Change Maker team within their own school, as leaders and change makers, to act on an issue or project that empowers children. It is so much more than advocacy!

*In selecting the Year 5 pupils, we would encourage each school to embark on a recruitment process that involves children in applying to become a Change Maker for your school.  We would invite you to consider children who would not immediately be acclaimed as leaders by their peers or teachers.

Audience

Teachers and children (2 x Year 5 children per school, attending with one or more teachers.)

Dates:

• Day 1 – Thursday, 1^st May 2025 (teachers and Y5 children)
• Day 2 – Tuesday, 1^st July 2025 (teachers only – no children)

(Children attend on Day 1 only, they do not attend on Day 2.)

Facilitators

The Learning Partnership and Cadoxton Primary School

Costs

Course costs are covered for each school. (Funded through Taith.)

Supply, accommodation and travel costs are the responsibility of each participating school – these are not part of the funding stream.

Registration

To register please contact info@tlpwales.co.uk

Please provide the names of the adults and two participating children.

Disclaimer

Please note: Risk assessments for the transport and health needs of children attending this course are the responsibility of each individual school. Insurance is the responsibility of each participating school.

Activities provided at Cadoxton as part of the course will be risk assessed in line with agreed protocols.

Please inform us of any dietary or specific health considerations prior to attending the course.