‘Belonging’ is that sense of being somewhere you can be confident that you will fit in and be safe in your identity: a feeling of being at home in a place.
The NEU commissioned research, 'Place and Belonging in School: why it matters today' offers examples of how intentional whole-school practice can help create a climate of welcome and belonging in school. A purposeful approach which brings everyone on board, enriches the lives of all concerned and sets the school on a positive and upward trajectory.
The context for the research was one of growing concerns about the rapid increase in rates of exclusions and alienation, and the impact of this on young people’s well-being mental health and life chances
This report illustrates what is possible – even in the most challenging of contexts – and how rewarding and joyful this is.
What does the research tell us?
The research findings have been organised around three interconnected themes. These are as follows:
The NEU’s ‘Belonging’ research highlights that where school leaders developed an intentional approach focused on changing learning and teaching, that this led to reshaping expectations and the culture of the school by all.
The NEU’s ‘Belonging’ research puts relationships between students and staff at the heart of the cycle of connectivity where they are heard and seen for who they are.
The NEU’s ‘Belonging’ research highlights that staff retention is far greater where teachers know that they can make a difference and they have a strong sense of personal and professional agency in their school.
Share best practice with other members on how your school is creating a sense of place and belonging and register your interest here to be more involved.
