A systematic literature review to explore how staff in schools describe how a sense of belonging is created for their pupils

Pupils have been found to be more motivated, engaged and dedicated to their education if they experience a sense of belonging in their school environment. This systematic literature review aimed to explore descriptions of how staff in secondary schools create a sense of belonging for their pupils. Databases, including PsycINFO: Ovid online, Education Resources Information Centre (ERIC), Applied Social Sciences Index & Abstracts (ASSIA) and EBSCOhost were searched for relevant qualitative research studies. PRISMA guidelines were followed, to identify, screen and select relevant research papers, resulting in 5 studies being screened against a recognised scoring framework. The current systematic literature review identified methods that were perceived to be useful when supporting pupils to develop a sense of belonging within their secondary school environment, both at the individual staff and whole school, systemic level. Limitations of the review are identified and directions for further research are also discussed.