Chapter 8: Voice, Creativity, Expression and Service

Our Need to Find a Voice; The Expression of Voice through Roles; Our Need for Expression; The Expressive Arts and Creativity; The Importance and Entitlement for Service; Summary

In this chapter, we suggest that each individual to needs to have a 'voice'. By 'voice' I mean the way each of us expresses part of ourselves which can be seen and felt by others. 

Humans are essentially social animals, and our well-being is constructed by how we are in relation with those around us in families, in school, and in work and social situations.  Through this 'voice' we can play a part in life and can be regarded by others as a special individual.

We can find a voice by the roles we play, and through the way we are in relationship. We can broaden our voice through the expressive arts and enjoy the feeling of taking part in expressive activities. We can find a special voice in service to others, individually and also in groups.

Summary

It is in this memorandum that we understand that to live meaningful lives we benefit from having a way of expression, and 'Voice'. We should not be content with being ascribed the role of consumers. To find the right avenue of expression for each of us at a particular time will lead to a lot more satisfaction in life and prevent us falling into depression, self medication, addiction  or some form of distraction.

Voice can be found in the roles we take in life. Both informal roles and formal ones. Having opportunity to be in a different role offers choice to be different and to become aware of new aspects of our personality.

The organisational aspects of educational institutions confer formal and informal roles to the stakeholders. More flexibility in organisation and wider forms of grouping will allow all participants to find new ways of being with others.

The Expressive Arts and Interests, all offer new opportunities to express ourselves in different ways, to find a home with something that gives us satisfaction and pleasure

Service and volunteering individually and in teams to work for a purpose provides a new space to be in role and contribution. This allows us to be free of normal expectations of work, family and classroom role.

The concept of finding the right forms of personal expression through choice and inclusiveness within the arts, sport, and drama, expressive writing, and service is one to be taken seriously. This stands along with the main other pillars of principles  of Meaning and Purpose, Relationships, and Health as the main building blocks of 21st Century schools and institutions.

Chapter 9: Opportunity in Structure     Part 2 Developing a 21st Century Approach to Education