The Power of Belonging: How Schools Can Help Pupils Feel Connected
Recent government research has shown that only three-fifths of pupils in the UK feel a sense of belonging at school, while 15-year-olds report some of the lowest levels of life satisfaction among OECD countries (PISA, Department for Education, 2023).
This sense of belonging, feeling accepted, supported, and valued within the school community, is closely linked to pupils’ mental health, motivation, and academic success.
Findings from the National Children’s Bureau (NCB) and Goldsmiths, University of London, shed light on the main factors shaping pupils’ sense of belonging in schools.
Key Factors That Influence Pupil Belonging
1. Teacher–Pupil Relationships
Teachers play a central role in building belonging. Their empathy, availability, and support create a sense of trust and connection that encourages engagement and participation.
2. Peer Relationships and Social Support
Positive peer interactions and friendships provide emotional stability. Pupils who feel supported by classmates are more likely to enjoy school and show reduced exposure to bullying.
3. Individual Traits and Self-Perception
Traits such as self-efficacy, hope, and conscientiousness promote belonging. Research also suggests that girls are more likely than boys to report a strong sense of belonging in school.
4. Parental Support and Engagement
Parental involvement in school life strengthens children’s sense of being cared for and valued. Supportive home, school relationships create continuity between family and school environments.
5. Extracurricular Activities and Participation
Activities such as sports, music, or clubs foster connection beyond academics. Balanced participation in such programs enhances social belonging and confidence.
6. School Climate and Safety
A fair, inclusive, and safe school environment encourages pupils to feel secure and respected. Unsupervised or unsafe spaces can weaken belonging and increase anxiety.
7. Pupil Aspirations and Future Outlook
Belonging shapes how pupils view their futures. Those who feel connected to their school often show greater confidence in setting and pursuing life and career goals.
8. Academic Achievement and Attendance
Belonging directly influences academic outcomes. Pupils who feel connected to their school attend more regularly, perform better, and show higher motivation to learn.
9. Wellbeing and Mental Health
A strong sense of belonging protects pupils from stress and depression. It improves self-esteem, emotional balance, and overall happiness, especially during key transitions such as moving to secondary school.
Conclusion
A strong sense of belonging in school is essential to every child’s well-being and academic growth. Teachers, peers, parents, and school environments all play interconnected roles in shaping how included pupils feel.
When schools intentionally foster inclusion, trust, and connection, they create the conditions for pupils to thrive, not only academically, but also socially and emotionally.
