ABSTRACT
This chapter explains the significance of learner and parent/carer voice to internal staff and other outside agencies. It discusses the different ways organisations can capture learner and parent/carer voice and use this information to inform and develop policy and practice. The chapter describes the skills needed by staff to enable them to become skilled listeners so that they can work effectively with diverse groups of education users. It explores the importance and impact of learner and parent/carer voice to the learning environment. Organisations need to establish formal and other opportunities to obtain learner and home views. Organisations must also find ways to collect the views of potentially vulnerable groups such as disabled users, students with SEN or minority populations. Active listening is an essential skill for all educators in every sector from Early Years through to further education. Listening to learners is a vital part of data collection and more fully understanding learning communities.
