The Power of Belonging: Nurturing Pupil Wellbeing
As a parent or educator, you know that school is about more than just academics. It’s about a child’s wellbeing and their sense of place. At the heart of this lies a fundamental human need: belonging.
Here at Schools Advisory Service, we believe that when pupils feel a sense of belonging, they truly thrive. June Brade, our experienced Mindfulness Teacher, shares why belonging matters and practical ways schools can foster this vital connection.
Why Belonging is Key for Pupils
For children, happiness and achievement are deeply connected to feeling like they belong. When pupils feel a sense of belonging, they tend to:
Boost Self-Worth: Feeling valued and accepted builds confidence and self-esteem.
Be Happier at School: A positive emotional connection reduces stress and increases enjoyment.
Feel Secure: Belonging offers a psychological safety net, allowing kids to learn and grow without fear.
Connect with Others: It links them to peers, teachers and the wider school community.
In short, belonging sets the stage for positive mental health, resilience and academic success.
How do you create a sense of belonging in schools?
Creating an environment where every child feels they belong requires intentional effort. Here are June’s top strategies:
1. Create a Welcoming Environment
Warm Greetings: Greet every child with a smile, perhaps at the door, using their name.
Positive Talk: Speak to children encouragingly. Your tone truly matters.
Show Their Value: Make it clear every child is valued, no matter what.
2. Celebrate Achievements & Diversity
Recognise Successes: Acknowledge academic wins, personal milestones and contributions.
Embrace Everyone: Actively celebrate the unique backgrounds, cultures and talents within your school.
3. Involve Them in Decisions
Offer Choices: Let pupils have a say in age-appropriate decisions, like where to put something on the wall or seating arrangements.
Give Them a Voice: Create chances for children to share ideas in class or school councils.
4. Create a Safe Space
Listen Up: Make sure kids feel safe to share their thoughts and feelings without judgment.
Comfort Items: Provide things like stress balls or fidget toys to help them self-regulate.
Quiet Zones: If possible, set up a ‘calm corner’ or teach a signal for quiet time.
5. Model Kindness
Lead by Example: Show empathy and respect in all your interactions.
Promote Goodness: Actively teach and reinforce kindness and understanding among pupils.
6. Practice Mindfulness
Mindful Moments: Bring simple mindfulness exercises (try the havening technique) into the school day.
Regulate Emotions: Mindfulness helps children understand and manage their feelings better, leading to a calmer learning space.
The Lasting Impact
Fostering belonging isn’t just a nice idea; it’s crucial for pupil wellbeing and success. By using these strategies, schools can create nurturing places where every child feels valued, secure, and truly part of something special.
When children feel they belong, they unlock their full potential and thrive.
For more resources, tips and mindfulness events, visit my Ask June page.
June Brade
Mindfulness Teacher
