New free toolkit helps schools put belonging and wellbeing at the heart of the curriculum
Published as part of the Rethinking Curriculum project, funded by the The Helen Hamlyn Trust, the free belonging and wellbeing toolkit aims to help schools evaluate how effectively their curriculum promotes pupil wellbeing and a sense of belonging.
The toolkit draws on a growing body of research that identifies belonging as a fundamental human need and a key factor in educational success. According to the resource, school belonging can be understood as the extent to which pupils feel “accepted, respected, included and supported” within the school environment. It also highlights the importance of psychological safety, enabling pupils to feel confident in expressing their identity and participating authentically in school life.
Central to the toolkit is the message that belonging and wellbeing are closely intertwined. Research cited in the resource suggests that pupils who experience a strong sense of belonging are more likely to enjoy positive mental health and emotional wellbeing. At the same time, higher levels of wellbeing help young people build relationships, manage challenges and engage confidently in school life.
To support implementation, the toolkit provides a range of practical resources, including a research review, case study, webinar and evaluation tool. School leaders can use these materials to assess current practice, identify strengths and refine their curriculum offer to better support pupils' social, emotional and academic development. The toolkit also includes guidance on aligning belonging-focused approaches with the National Curriculum and the Curriculum and Assessment Review, helping schools integrate wellbeing priorities without compromising academic ambition.
At a time when schools are increasingly focused on pupil mental health, the new resource reinforces a simple but powerful message: when children feel they belong, they are better placed to learn, participate and succeed. For school leaders, the challenge is ensuring that belonging is not viewed as an add-on, but as a core element of an effective curriculum.
