Hear my voice!

Rix Inclusive Research is working with Local Authority partners to trial the use of Rix Wiki software with children and young people in care. In this exciting project, we have worked with Local Authority Virtual Schools in Medway and Newham.

In England, every young person in care is required to have a Personal Education Plan (PEP). This plan records what is going well in school and what things could be better. It clearly sets out targets and ambitions for the year ahead. The young person usually inputs to this plan via a written document, often responding to questions like ‘What is your favourite subject, and why?’

In our project, we explored how young people could answer these same questions, but via a Rix Wiki as an alternative to a written document. In a Wiki, you can respond with voice, words, photos and videos. It’s a fresh way to have your opinions and views heard.

I loved the fact that it had all forms of media. I could record my voice. I could take a picture. I could type as well.

Secondary aged student in a Medway school

The initial feedback from the professionals in the Children in Care teams has been fascinating. Young people appear to enjoy using Rix software and are proud to showcase what they can do and what they have achieved.

Rix Wiki screenshot
Personal Education Plans in the Rix Wiki format

Paige Alcot, our research assistant on the project, reflected on the evidence and outcomes from the work with the students.

After working on this project, I noticed a few universal successes, like children feeling empowered in their self-expression and excited to show those around them what matters most to them. These sentiments were echoed by the people who provide them with one-on-one support, being able to relate what the child added to their Wiki to experiences they’ve had working together in the real world. Overall, the Wiki does a great job of providing a holistic picture of the individual dictated by their vision, giving each child a voice.

In the next part of the project, we will be exploring how the Wiki worked during the PEP meeting – how social workers, teachers and carers reacted to hearing the child’s views and hopes and dreams in their own words.

So this makes me feel better because people get to hear what I need to say without me feeling uncomfortable.

Secondary aged student in a Newham school

This project has been funded by the UEL East London Impact Scholars Award (ELISA).

The project is led by Craig Wilkie with support and guidance provided by Paige Alcot, Ajay Choksi and Prof. Janet Hoskins.

 

We have used the term children in care in this article. Some local authorities and organisations may use the term looked after children.