Dronninglund Gymnasium

How to engage young people in democratic processes at school level

We are very satisfied students!

So what is the problem?

Rules provoke young Danes!

Is more freedom possible?

Only one representative from each class in the school council

Common sense rules

Dissatisfied students do not learn!

If you show trust you gain trust.

Two examples:- Lateness- Abuse of computers

The problem:- Not enough students are involved in the decision making at our school.- We want students to have a say in the actual rules that concern the class or the individual student

How does the student council work?

The headmaster is the final authority

The council discuss and express student opinions

A messenger between students and teachers

Cheaper food at Café Eatpoint!

Who has inspired us ?

- Summerhill 1921 founded by A. S. Neill:- "Only people who feel powerless turn to violent and obstructive behavior.”- The teachers’ votes do not count more than the children’s

- The Free Gymnasium in Denmark- the students have the same influence and rights as the teachers.- Students express themselves creatively – e.g. through a graffiti wall

The solution- A trial period of total equality- Weekly meetings- One man one voice- More responsibility- More democracy

- More happy and satisfied students- More involvement in democratic processes outside school

The idea would be innovative at our school!Easy to turn into practice – but maybe difficult to make a success

Our headmaster is present

So, what do you think?