Cultivating School Belonging: A Foundation for Student Wellbeing

In the busy landscape of school life, amidst the pressure of exams, attendance targets, and curriculum delivery, it is easy to overlook the intangible threads that hold a school community together. Yet, research consistently shows that our sense of belonging—as individuals, in our friendships, in school, and in communities—plays a vital role in our mental health and wellbeing.

To know our place and really feel part of our environment is a basic human need. It can have powerful and long-lasting impacts in many areas of our lives, including our physical and mental health, education, employment, and relationships. When young people feel that they truly belong, it empowers them to contribute to the world and make a real difference.

As we look ahead to Place2Be’s Children’s Mental Health Week 2026, the theme 'This is My Place' could not be more relevant. It serves as a timely reminder for peers, families, schools, and communities to create inclusive and nurturing environments where every child can confidently say, "This is my place."

Belonging to School

Belonging to school, also referred to as school belonging or school connection, refers to the extent to which students feel accepted, valued, and included within their school community. It encompasses a sense of connection not only with teachers, staff and peers but also with the school’s culture and environment. When students experience belonging, they are more likely to engage in their studies, build positive relationships, and develop resilience. This sense of belonging acts as a foundation for fostering mental wellbeing, enhancing academic performance, and encouraging personal growth, ultimately contributing to a supportive and inclusive school atmosphere for everyone.

School belonging refers to the extent to which students feel accepted, valued, and included within their school community.

The Evidence: Why School Belonging is a Protective Factor

For Senior Mental Health Leads and pastoral staff, fostering belonging is not just a "nice to have"—it is a strategic necessity. A robust sense of belonging to the school community acts as a significant protective factor against mental health difficulties.

Evidence from recent literature reviews on school belonging highlights a clear correlation: students who feel connected to their school are less likely to experience anxiety and depression. Conversely, a lack of belonging is often a precursor to school avoidance and EBSA (Emotionally Based School Avoidance).

When a student feels they are seen, valued, and accepted by their peers and teachers, their engagement levels rise. They are more likely to attend school regularly, participate in lessons, and achieve their academic potential. In essence, belonging is the soil in which resilience and academic success grow.

Links to School Belonging and Mental Health and Wellbeing

Long-Term Impact of School Belonging

A strong sense of belonging at school significantly improves pupil outcomes, including academic performance and attendance. It is one of the strongest predictors of academic achievement, particularly when paired with high expectations from families and school staff.

Pupils who feel a sense of belonging are more likely to be engaged and motivated, which are key indicators of successful learning. Additionally, the benefits of a positive connection to school extend into adulthood, influencing future career decisions, relationships, and overall life satisfaction. Over time, fostering school belonging not only supports the development of happy and successful students but also creates empowered individuals who carry these benefits throughout their lives.

Wellbeing and Mental Health

A strong sense of belonging at school is closely tied to pupils' overall happiness and mental health. When students feel connected and supported within their school environment, they are better shielded from negative emotions such as stress, anxiety, and depression. Research consistently shows that pupils who feel they belong are not only more content but also more confident and capable learners, leading to better academic and personal outcomes. These positive effects are especially critical during transitional periods, such as moving from primary to secondary school. Developing a sense of belonging during these times helps pupils manage changes, build resilience, and adapt more effectively to new challenges. By prioritising a sense of belonging in schools, educators can create environments where all students feel valued, supported, and equipped to thrive both emotionally and academically.

Evidence-Based Tips for Cultivating School Belonging

Creating a culture of belonging requires a deliberate, whole-school approach. According to the National Children's Bureau's literature review on belonging in schools (Belonging Matters), fostering a sense of belonging is crucial for students' mental health, wellbeing, and academic success.

Drawing on the insights from the literature review, here are practical, evidence-based strategies schools can implement to nurture belonging and build stronger connections within the school environment. These approaches include prioritising staff and student relationships, as well as peer-to-peer relationships, enabling open communication, developing cultures of trust and empathy, creating inclusive policies, and embedding belonging as a core value across the school community.

1. Prioritise Positive Relationships

Relationships are the bedrock of belonging. Schools should actively promote open communication and collaboration among students and staff. This goes beyond the classroom; it involves creating spaces where students feel safe to share their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. Activities that require teamwork, student leadership and peer mentorship are particularly effective in breaking down social barriers and building trust.

2. Celebrate Diversity and Inclusion

An inclusive environment is one where difference is not just tolerated, but celebrated. Schools that actively recognise diverse cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives send a powerful message of acceptance and empathy. When students see their own identities reflected and respected in the school environment, their sense of belonging deepens.

3. Amplify Student Voice

Empowerment is a key driver of belonging. Students need to feel that they have a stake in their school community. By providing opportunities for student leadership and involvement in decision-making, schools demonstrate that they value their pupils' contributions. This shifts students from being passive recipients of education to active participants in their school community.

How Wellbeing Ambassadors Foster School Belonging

One of the most effective ways to operationalise these tips is through peer-led initiatives. The Wellbeing Ambassadors programme supports schools in developing peer-led wellbeing interventions that directly promote belonging and positive relationships.

Peer-to-Peer Connection

Young people often find it easier to open up to their peers than to adults. Wellbeing Ambassadors act as a bridge, offering approachable, relatable support. They are trained to spot the signs of isolation and reach out to students who may be struggling to find their place.

For example, ambassadors can run lunchtime drop-in clubs or "friendship stops," providing a structured, safe environment for students who might otherwise spend break times alone. This directly combats social isolation and helps vulnerable students build their own support networks.

Leading by Example

Wellbeing Ambassadors model positive relationship skills. Through their training, they learn active listening, empathy, and non-judgemental support. By demonstrating these behaviours in the corridors and classrooms, they influence the wider school culture, making kindness and inclusion the norm rather than the exception.

Voice-Led Mental Health

The programme is inherently voice-led. Ambassadors identify the specific needs of their peer group—whether that is exam stress, transition anxiety, or social exclusion—and design campaigns to address them. This ensures that wellbeing support is relevant and engaging, further reinforcing the message that students have the power to shape their environment.

Making 'This is My Place' a Reality

As we prepare for Children’s Mental Health Week, the challenge for schools is to move beyond slogans and embed belonging into the fabric of daily school life.

By integrating peer-led support like the Wellbeing Ambassadors programme into your whole-school mental health strategy, you provide a practical framework for connection. You empower students to look out for one another, ensuring that every young person, regardless of their background or challenges, can walk through the school gates and feel, "This is my place."

Ready to build a culture of school belonging?

Join us for our free discovery workshop on January 22nd, where you'll gain practical insights and actionable ideas to foster a culture of belonging in your school. This session will equip you with evidence-based strategies, including peer-led initiatives like the Wellbeing Ambassadors program, to enhance student engagement and well-being. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with other school leaders and take the next step in creating an inclusive, supportive environment for all students. Reserve your spot today!

Discover how you can empower your students to lead the way. Find out more about the Wellbeing Ambassadors Programme