Representatives from the School Council joined young people from across Devon for the School and Youth Council Day, organised by Devon County Council’s Youth Participation team. It was the first time the council had brought schools and youth councils together to help shape its Make Your Mark youth ballot.

Held in the Council Chamber at County Hall in Exeter, the event gave students the opportunity to experience democratic decision-making first-hand and understand how young people can influence decisions across Devon.

Ahead of the event, students worked with their peers to identify the three issues they felt were most important to young people in Devon. During the day, students discussed their ideas with other young representatives and shared their chosen issues with the room. A mini vote then helped narrow down the options.

The discussions will help determine the shortlist for the Make Your Mark youth ballot, which will launch on 2 November and run throughout the month, allowing young people to vote for the issue they believe matters most in Devon. Devon Youth Council will then use the result to guide its campaign for the next two years, working with decision-makers to research the issue and help bring about change.

As well as debating the issues, Isca students met other youth representatives from across Devon, spoke with county councillors and learned more about how political decision-making works locally. They also spent time planning for how best to run the vote in their school, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust.

The day was led predominantly by members of Devon Youth Council, giving young people the chance to learn by taking part in real democratic processes similar to those used by Devon County Council’s Full Council.

Headteacher Vicki Joyce said:

“We are incredibly proud of our students for representing Isca Academy and making their voices heard at County Hall. Giving young people the opportunity to debate the issues that matter to them and engage directly with decision-makers is an important part of developing confident, informed and active citizens.

“It was fantastic to see our students contributing their ideas, listening to different perspectives and taking part in a genuine democratic process. We hope this experience inspires them to keep using their voices and playing an active role in shaping their communities.”

Cllr Richard Jefferies, Cabinet Member for Children's Services at Devon County Council, said:

“It was really great to be at the School and Youth Council Day and talk with young people about the issues that affect them in Devon. I was really impressed with the level of debate, and there were some really good solutions discussed throughout the day. It was clear that young people care deeply about their communities and are keen to help shape the future of Devon.”