Creating a sense of belonging when you work in a school
In many ways our Covid experience has left us considering what really matters in our daily lives. Removing contact and connection with others on a daily basis really reinforced how much we as social animals desire and hunger for connection, and in turn a sense of “belonging.”
This was so evident in Schools, where for so long, people were removed from the setting, reminding us without our students and staff these places are really just a collection of empty buildings. It is the people, the hopes, dreams, emotions and aspirations that bring these spaces to life and make schools such special places.
School communities are a busy hive of activity with a diverse landscape of people-- students, teachers, educational support staff, maintenance, parents, and friends.
In schools we talk a lot about the importance of students feeling like they belong, but I also believe, just as equally important is that school staff also feel like they belong. Over the past ten years I have worked at two schools, and I have been very fortunate to feel like I have ‘belonged’ at both. (I am a ‘people person,’ so that helps). However I do continually keep building on these connections, and writing this article has reminded me to even extend myself further in this area. I also ensure that I make time to meet and chat with new staff.
So from my experiences, I thought I would outline a few of my tips for you to consider, as you seek connection and a sense of belonging within your school community.
Immerse yourself in the school culture.
Attend school community events. As an EA, it is not always “expected” that we attend school events such as Principal events, Formals, Valedictories, Speech Nights, etc. However I do encourage you to consider attending. I like to go to these events to support my Senior Executive. In attending a few of these events, you will build stronger relationships with people not only from your immediate team but also with staff from other areas of the school you may not communicate with regularly. Last week in recess time, we held a staff 10 question Quizmaster Competition. It was delightful to see staff gather to share morning tea, have some laughs, social interaction and fun.Don’t be exclusive.
If you are the one organising an event or activity, think about the purpose of the evening. Spend some time really thinking about the invitation list - have you left some people off your list? If you have, why is that so? Consider how they might they feel. (And then head here for my event run sheet!)Take a minute for the small but meaningful daily interactions.
You know yourself that you always feel appreciated and valued when someone takes an interest in you. It doesn’t take much to smile, say hello as someone walks by, engage in a short conversation perhaps while making a coffee in the staffroom, and by just being pleasant and kind. Be active in your listening.Remember it takes time.
Adapting to any new workplace can be a real culture shock, particularly when you have been at one school for a lengthy period - I know how that feels. If you are struggling to feel like you belong in your school, it will take time and a little work on your part particularly if you are a new staff member. Building any new relationships, particularly working partnerships, don’t just happen overnight!Get to know the students.
At the end of the day, students are the essence of schools. It doesn't matter what area of the school we work in - we are there for them. I understand however if you work in administration, depending on what area of the school you work in, it can be difficult to get to know the students. Fortunately for me, I can attend weekly assemblies and other student events. Students often walk by my office and seek me out to say hello. If you are an EA in a school, try asking your Senior Executive if you could get involved in a student activity - I promise it will brighten your day!
We spend many hours at our schools, so it is well worth the time to get to know your work colleagues and students, enjoy your daily interactions, collaborate, engage in discussions, support one another, laugh and most importantly have fun!! I promise with a little bit of work on your part you will create strong connections and in turn a sense of “belonging.”
If you’re feeling a bit isolated in your role, and would like to benefit from the support, advice and learnings of a group of likeminded Education Administrative Professionals working for Executive Senior Leadership Teams in schools - consider joining our community - a national network dedicated solely to supporting Education EAs!
