The Belong Project: Working Together to Build a Stronger Sense of Belonging
Date: 2nd Nov 2026 @ 5:14pm
Today, two of our Year 6 pupils had the exciting opportunity to take part in the Belong Project, an initiative that will span the next two years and is led through education, training and research to strengthen and promote a sense of belonging within school communities. The project brings together schools, pupils and staff to explore how everyone can feel valued, included and connected.
We joined children from other Emmaus CAT schools to explore what belonging really looks and feels like in a school community. The day began with an investigation into a fictional school called Grim Grange, where no one felt that they belonged. Working together, the children considered what life might be like in such a school. They discussed how staff might interact with pupils and reflected on what the classrooms, playground and dining hall could feel like when a sense of belonging is missing.
After lunch, the children turned their attention to Belong School, a place where everyone feels valued, welcomed and included. They explored the opposite scenario, identifying the actions, attitudes and environments that help children and adults feel that they truly belong.
Drawing on their ideas and discussions, pupils from across the Emmaus family of schools worked collaboratively to create five golden rules for belonging. These important principles will help guide schools as they continue their journey towards creating communities where everyone feels seen, heard and respected.
Our wonderful Year 6 pupils represented Mount Carmel brilliantly throughout the day. They will now take their learning back to school and work alongside the School Council to further develop ideas about what belonging should look and feel like at Mount Carmel.
A special highlight of the day was seeing the work of artist Myro Doodles, who beautifully captured the discussions, ideas and creativity of the children through live notes and artwork. Her illustrations provided a wonderful visual record of the day's learning and collaboration.
We are incredibly proud of our children and look forward to seeing how their ideas help shape an even stronger culture of belonging across our school community.
