Culture in Action: How Belonging Shapes Behaviour, Attendance and Personal Development

The programme explored a shared priority across the Trust: how to build and sustain a genuine sense of belonging in our schools. Through practical and evidence-informed sessions, speakers considered how culture shapes behaviour, attendance and personal development, and how a strong culture creates the conditions for all pupils to flourish.

Presentations ranged from reflections on warm/strict cultures and the role of kindness, to the importance of strong leadership, effective pastoral systems and meaningful enrichment. A clear theme emerged: culture must come before compliance - belonging is foundational, not an add‑on. Speakers also emphasised the need to extend that sense of belonging beyond pupils, through clear and purposeful communication with parents and carers.

We are grateful to all our speakers for sharing their expertise and insight, equipping colleagues with practical strategies to implement in their own settings. Special thanks to Joe Ambrose for hosting with warmth and humour, to Patrick Farmbrough for leading and organising the event, and to the team at Holmleigh Park High School for their excellent hospitality.

Delegate feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many describing the day as “inspiring”, “fantastic” and “well worth the journey.”

As a Trust, we remain committed to continuous learning. This conference reaffirmed that when belonging is at the heart of our work, every pupil and every member of staff is better placed to thrive.