Following responses so far:
From a non-renewing member:
1. What do I like about the site?
I think the website looks interesting as soon as you reach the homepage, it is bright, easy to read and with a relevant picture (perhaps the picture could be changed every so often). The ‘log on’ panel is easy to see and use and I like the fact that I can reach the latest news stories straight away from the homepage as this is what I predominantly use the site for. I like the poll on the front page, it is a very quick and simple way to gather opinions in a fun way. I also like the fact that the links to other parts of the website are both clear and appropriate. Downloading ideas from the free resources list is quick and easy and I have never had a problem doing this, so far downloading has been bug free!
2. What would I like to see done differently?
I would like a simpler message board/forum with a clear link to it on the homepage ‘ask a question’ makes it sound like if you click the link you will be able to send an e-mail to School Councils UK, perhaps this section should be retitled ‘forum’ or ‘message board’. Personally I prefer split browser message boards where the titles of each message are in the top half of the screen and when you click on them the message opens in the bottom half so that you don’t have to keep clicking backwards and forwards between pages. I would also like there to be separate sections for staff and pupils as well as an area where both groups can post.
3. How do we get others to use it?
In my area we have a School Council officer who works with schools across the county, they produce newsletters and I am sure they could advertise the website through these. Perhaps schools could give you the e-mail addresses of their school councillors and you could contact them everytime the site is updated? We are currently sorting out a School Council webpage, I will suggest that a link to School Councils UK is included.
4. What are the main barriers to overcome?
The website needs to be more child friendly, it is clearly aimed at teachers, perhaps a separate childrens area should be created including competitions and and news items they might be interested in and an area where schools can show off their achievements (by the way what happened to the idea of creating bronze, silver, and gold certificates for school councils?).
AND:
From a member:
Sounds good, Mark. The main issue for us I think is finding the time for members to access the site in school and in pairs, which always works best. The time we do all get together seems always to be taken up with business!
Anyway, we won’t forget and if there’s any ‘piloting’ or something you’d like us to do – just let us know