Categories
resource

Cultivating School Belonging

Authors: Iesha Finn

Sense of School Belonging

Belonging is a fundamental psychological need which is powerful, fundamental and an extremely pervasive motivation (Baumeister and Leary, 1995). 

Belonging in school is defined as relating to others and feeling secure in this which in turn helps one to feel worth of love and respect (Osterman, 2000). 

It is the extent to which one feels personally accepted, respected, included and supported by others, especially teachers and other adults in school environments (Goodenow and Grady, 1993). 

Why School Belonging is important

Research into this area highlights that a sense of belonging at school is key to positive mental wellbeing and academic success. 

Feeling a sense of belonging in school is related to better academic outcomes, engagement in learning and enhanced social emotional skills. 

Schools play a crucial role in fostering a sense of belonging not only through peer relationships but through the school community, cultural values and policies (Osterman 2000). 

View our full presentation for top tips and techniques:

Categories
resource

Eliciting Pupil Voice

Authors: Dr Jenny Twells, Rachael John and Jemma Donnelly

What is Pupil Voice?

  • Eliciting pupil voice is the process of exploring a child’s views with them.
  • These views should then betaken into consideration when decisions are being made about the child/ children.
  • This might involve understanding how the child feels about school, what helps them, what doesn’t help them, what they enjoy, and what they don’t enjoy.
  • These views can be explored both in group sessions, such as student councils, or in individual sessions with children.
  • It is importantthat these viewsare taken seriously, and influence changes/ decision making processes accordingly.

Why is it important?

  • We want to empower children and young people to know that their experiences, opinions and wishes are understood and valued.This promotes their confidence and development.
  • The child knows themselves better than anyone else, therefore, capturing the child’s views can help to make proactive and positive changes to their life.
  • All children have the fundamental right to express their views on all matters affecting them (United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, 1989) and to participate as fully as possible in decisions involving them (SEND code of practice, 2015).

View our full presentation for top tips and techniques: