The SOCRATES Compass Mechanism is a structured way for children aged 6-12 to take part in civic life and local decision-making. It follows a four-phase, circular participation cycle inspired by a compass. Each cardinal point marks one phase of the journey: North: Notice, East: Explore, South: Speak, West: Weigh.

The cycle is designed to help children move from identifying what matters to them, to shaping solutions, to engaging with decision-makers, and then reflecting on what changed. The “Weigh” phase is not an ending, it feeds directly into the next cycle, so participation becomes more consistent and meaningful over time.

Click each compass point to explore the phases.

NORTH - NOTICE
The Notice phase is where participation begins. Children are supported to observe their everyday environment and identify issues that affect them in their school or community. This may include situations they find unfair, unsafe, frustrating or important to change. During this phase, facilitators focus on listening rather than guiding children towards predefined topics. Children are encouraged to express concerns in their own words and through age-appropriate methods. The aim is not to solve problems yet, but to ensure that children’s perspectives are clearly recognised and taken seriously from the outset.
WEST - WEIGH
The Weigh phase focuses on reflection and accountability. Children look back at what happened during the process, how their views were received and what, if anything, changed as a result of their participation. Feedback from adults and decision-makers is an essential part of this phase. Children are supported to understand how their input was considered and why certain decisions were taken. This reflection strengthens trust and learning, and it feeds directly into the next Compass cycle, helping participation become more consistent and meaningful over time rather than a one-off experience.
SOUTH - SPEAK
The Speak phase connects children’s ideas to the wider world. Children are supported to present their proposals, messages or recommendations to adults, organisations or decision-makers in a structured and respectful way. This phase is central to meaningful participation. It ensures that children’s views are not only expressed, but shared in contexts where they can influence discussion, responses or action. Facilitators help children prepare how they want to communicate, while adults involved are encouraged to engage in dialogue and provide clear responses.
EAST - EXPLORE
In the Explore phase, children work together to better understand the issues they have identified. They discuss causes, share different experiences and reflect on how these issues affect them and others. This phase helps children move from individual observations to collective thinking. With facilitation support, they begin to shape ideas, possible solutions or proposals. The focus is on collaboration, inclusion and ensuring that different viewpoints are heard, while keeping the process accessible and meaningful for all children involved.