Case Study


Creating a Culture of Belonging


Leadership

Belonging

Mentoring

Teamwork

Coaching

Transitions

Recognizing the importance of transitions and realizing the strength of a school lies in individuals and in how they support one another, the leadership team wanted to continue to create a culture where a sense of belonging was prioritised.

Focusing on student transitions, three key approaches centered around:

  1. Student Shadowing

    Action: A student shadowing process allowed the school team to gain valuable insights into students' experiences and identify specific areas where transitions could be improved.

    Purpose: The goal was to understand the challenges students faced during the transition and to gather feedback that would inform the development of a strengthened transition program.

  2. Peer Mentoring

    Action: A peer mentoring program was implemented to provide guidance and support. Mentors were trained in active listening, empathy, and leadership skills to foster a sense of belonging and ease anxiety. Regular check-ins and peer mentoring sessions were held to encourage knowledge sharing and build relationships.

    Purpose: The goal was to create a supportive peer network and an impactful peer mentoring program where practised peer mentoring techniques focused on the mutual exchange of knowledge and support.

  3. Enhanced Activities

    Action: Adjustments were made to transition activities including revamping parent communications and experiences and introducing interactive student activities.

    Purpose: The goal was to make the transition experience less intimidating, reduce anxiety and become more supportive.


“The transition activities and games helped me to think about what I need to bring to school and to get to know who I can talk to next year.”

- Transition Student

“With the implementation of transition programs and the support of parents, teachers, and administrators, the transition can become more effective and less intimidating than some students might expect.”

Cauley & Jovanovich, 2006; Shoshani & Slone, 2013; U.S. Dept. of Education, 2008; Watson, 2004


This success of these approaches was due to the collective effort across divisions and stakeholding groups. This case study is based on projects carried out in international school.s in Portugal.

The collaborative sharing of insights and expertise significantly shaped and enhanced the impacts of these strategic school development initiatives.

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