Inclusion, Belonging and Safety in London Schools: Full Report on behalf of London's Violence Reduction Unit

The University of Bath were commissioned by London’s Violence Reduction Unit (VRU) to research how to improve inclusion across London’s schools. Research shows that to be included, students must feel a sense of school belonging. This has two aspects; firstly, feeling individually and socially accepted in school, and secondly, having a secure sense of emotional, social and physical safety. The main aim of the study was therefore, to capture students’ perspectives on what they need to feel a sense of belonging and safety in school.

Between November 2023 and January 2024, we surveyed 3,473 students, across all 32 London boroughs and heard from 87 students in a series of focus groups. We also engaged 145 parents and 179 educators through an online survey, and a further 19 school leaders and educators via interviews and focus groups.

This report details the key research findings and what these tell us about the principles and values that should underpin actions to improve school inclusion across London.