According to Edelman, nearly two-thirds of young people expect to see their values reflected in an institution’s messaging. From this, it’s clear to see that for educational bodies engaging students effectively is no longer just a “nice-to-have”—it’s a necessity. 

In this week’s webinar, hosted by our very own Antonia,  we explored the evolving landscape of student engagement. From harnessing digital tools to empowering students to take an active role in decision-making, our expert panel shared their experience and insights on how education providers can transform the way they engage young people.

For those that couldn’t make it, or who would like a recap on the key outtakes, here are the top tips that we captured.  

Create spaces for real conversations

Rather than asking students for feedback on minor issues, schools should create opportunities for them to discuss the things that matter most—like mental health, teaching methods, and school policies. With 40% of Gen Z reporting they feel stressed most of the time, often due to school pressures and external challenges like climate change and social justice issues, it’s crucial to address these topics openly.  

When students feel they can safely share their thoughts on these important topics, they’re more likely to engage widely, because they feel their voices matter. Authenticity is key here: if students see their contributions lead to real change, their trust and commitment to the school deepens.

Involve students in decision-making

Don’t just collect feedback—invite students into the conversation when shaping the learning environment. Did you know schools that actively engage students in decision-making processes report a 20% increase in student satisfaction and academic outcomes? Whether it’s through student advisory boards or co-designing initiatives, students need to feel ownership over their educational journey. When schools work alongside students to solve challenges, the outcomes are more creative and better suited to their needs. This isn’t just about making them feel involved—it’s about making education more relevant and engaging.

Be transparent and genuine

In a world where you have just 1.7 seconds to grab a Gen Z student’s attention and 8 seconds to engage them fully, transparency and clarity in messaging are crucial. Students today can easily spot when an institution’s values are just for show. Schools must demonstrate their values through consistent actions and honest communication. Young people appreciate transparency—if schools say they care about mental health or inclusion, they need to back it up with real initiatives and programmes. This builds a culture of trust and keeps students engaged.

Embrace, and leverage technology 

It’s no secret that young people are more digitally connected than ever. With 72% of students globally using digital devices in the classroom, schools should embrace platforms and digital tools that students already use, whether it’s social media, chatbots, or gamified learning environments. Gamification brings a fun, interactive element to learning, making it more engaging by incorporating points, rewards, and challenges. AI takes this a step further by enabling personalised learning experiences, adapting lessons to each student’s needs and providing instant feedback. 

Empower students to lead

One of the best ways to increase engagement is to give students opportunities to lead. Whether it’s through student-led initiatives, ambassador programmes, or involving alumni as mentors, giving students ownership over projects helps them feel more invested. Interestingly, 46% of Gen Zers over the age of 18 have a side hustle and many alumni now contribute actively to their school’s branding as influencers or ambassadors. Schools that support student leadership show they trust young people’s capabilities, which, in turn, fosters a greater sense of belonging and commitment.

The future of education: Where do we go from here?

Throughout the webinar, we heard directly from young people about what has worked (and what hasn’t) in their experiences with student engagement. Whether it’s integrating their feedback into meaningful school decisions or ensuring digital tools are part of the communication strategy, the recurring theme was clear: when students feel heard and valued, their engagement skyrockets.

Missed the live webinar? You can catch the recording here.

Plus if you’re looking to explore these topics further, you’re in luck. Reach out to us and book a FREE 30-minute diagnostic call with Antonia here. We’ll help you tackle challenges like retention, digital transformation, or student satisfaction, with tailored strategies for your school.