As part of the Preparation for Adulthood (PfA) audit, our learners worked alongside staff to trial and shape accessible survey questions designed to gather young people’s views about their education, support and future aspirations.

 

Using Calthorpe Academy’s research-informed Co-Production Framework, staff adapted the survey using simplified language, visuals and Widgit symbols to ensure learners could access and meaningfully contribute to the process. Learners then tested the questions, gave feedback and helped identify where further explanation, context or support was needed.

 

Importantly, learners’ responses directly influenced how the survey was developed. Their feedback highlighted the need for more flexible responses, supported discussion opportunities and the inclusion of direct learner voice alongside quantitative data.

 

Our learners’ views are now contributing to the wider picture across Birmingham alongside feedback from other SEND schools and settings. This will help shape future improvements to Preparation for Adulthood processes and ensure that the experiences of young people with SEND are better reflected across the city.

 

This work strongly reflects our commitment as a Rights Respecting Gold School and links closely to:

 

Article 12 – every child’s right to express their views and have them taken seriously.

Article 13 – the right to access and share information in ways they can understand.

Article 23 – the right for children with disabilities to actively participate in decisions and their community.

 

We are incredibly proud of our learners for helping to shape meaningful change through genuine co-production and partnership working.