The Belonging Pilot is a pilot randomised controlled trial (RCT) involving six schools in south-east England, UK. It investigates the feasibility of carrying out a phase III trial of the Belonging Programme, a school-based intervention involving two short classroom activities for year-9 students and two online activities for school teachers, in English secondary schools. The pilot includes an integral process evaluation to assess fidelity, reach and acceptability of the intervention and how this varies by school, teacher and student characteristics.

Study background

Students’ sense of school belonging, including perceptions of teacher support and school connectedness, may impact on adolescent mental health and violence among young people (1-3). Adolescent mental health has worsened with inequalities widening since the COVID-19 pandemic (4, 5). School exclusions are associated with psychological distress, violence, educational failure and poor physical/mental health in adulthood (6-9).

There is evidence from previous trials and systematic reviews that building student sense of belonging through school interventions can promote student mental wellbeing and reduce school exclusion and adolescent violence (3, 10-12). The most promising brief interventions to promote school belonging are two recent interventions led by US researchers, which were shown to have strong reach to disadvantaged students (13, 14).

We have combined these two interventions and culturally optimised the materials for English Secondary schools and inclusivity through comprehensive community engagement and involvement (CEI). The pilot trial runs throughout the academic year 2025-2026.

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