In recent decades, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of involving children and young people in the development of educational systems that affect their lives. This principle of student participation is grounded in international human rights frameworks such as Article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), which guarantees children’s right to express their views on matters that affect them. It is increasingly reflected in educational discourse across Europe. However, although young people’s views are often encouraged in extracurricular activities or civic education, their meaningful involvement in developing core curricula remains limited in many contexts.
This is particularly striking when considering the significant amount of time students spend in education. On average, students in Europe spend between 750 and 1,000 hours per year in compulsory education, depending on the country and age group (OECD, 2023). Given that young people dedicate such a substantial portion of their lives to school, it is crucial that they have a say in how learning is structured, what content is prioritised and which methods are used. Without meaningful participation, schools risk becoming environments of passive compliance rather than spaces of active engagement and growth.
This article explores the role of student participation in curriculum development. It analyses emerging European trends and highlights how such involvement could address pressing educational challenges, such as absenteeism, disengagement and a perceived lack of relevance in learning.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.
