Many enquiries begin with an educator’s observation or question. But what if the enquiry started with learners?

Consider:

• What do learners notice or wonder about in their learning environment?

• How might they help shape the enquiry question?

• What methods could they help design or lead?

This shift supports a more democratic and inclusive approach to enquiry.

 Practical strategies for co-researching

The Youth Voice Toolkit includes the Empowering Youth Voices Resource Pack, which utilises peer-research as a method to develop children and young people’s skills, ability and confidence to consult their peers on any given theme. The peer-research process led by children and young people supports a genuine, diverse and non-tokenistic approach.

Here are some strategies to support meaningful involvement with children and young people. These strategies would also be applicable to those working with adult learners.

• Co-create enquiry questions through dialogue and brainstorming.

• Use participatory tools like graffiti walls, storyboards, or digital surveys designed with learners.

• Facilitate learner-led focus groups or interviews.

• Analyse data together, using visual or creative methods to interpret findings.

• Reflect collaboratively on what the practitioner enquiry means and what actions should follow.

Making practitioner enquiry accessible to children and young people

To engage children and young people meaningfully in practitioner enquiry, we must also ensure that the themes, questions, and processes are understandable and relatable. This is not just an ethical consideration — it’s a practical one that supports genuine participation.

Drawing on the support materials within the Youth Voice Toolkit, here are some key strategies from How to make a 'theme' understandable for children and young people:

• Simplify language without simplifying meaning: Use clear, age-appropriate language to explain the purpose and process of the enquiry.

• Use analogies and real-life examples: Connect abstract ideas to learners’ lived experiences.

• Visualise the theme: Use drawings, diagrams, or storyboards to help learners grasp complex concepts.

• Create space for questions: Encourage learners to ask questions and express confusion — this is part of the enquiry process.

• Check for understanding: Use tools like exit tickets, reflection prompts, or peer explanation to ensure learners are following the enquiry journey.

Remember: If learners don’t understand the theme of your enquiry, they can’t meaningfully contribute to shaping or exploring it.

Explore the full Youth Voice Toolkit for more tools, templates, and guidance.