The 3-18 Education Trust has launched a new Belonging Council to bring students and staff together in shaping the future of belonging across all schools within the Trust. The inaugural meeting took place at the Trust’s Shrewsbury offices, marking a significant milestone in supporting the newly introduced Belonging Framework—a Trust-wide initiative designed to foster inclusive environments where every individual feels valued and supported.
Led by Sadie Howson, Director of Inclusion, the Council will meet at least once each term to turn ideas into meaningful actions that strengthen belonging at both school and Trust levels. Students and staff from a range of schools—including primary, secondary and all‑through settings—have been selected as champions to represent their communities.
At the first meeting, Student Champion, Tom Booth, represented Thomas Adams School brilliantly, showing enthusiasm, maturity and a real commitment to the group’s aims. Staff Champion at Thomas Adams School, Jenni Whitfield, added “We are incredibly proud of his contribution and are excited to work together as we help shape the feeling of belonging both within Thomas Adams and across the wider Trust student body”.
The launch event served not only as an introduction to the Council but also as a celebration of shared values, collaboration and student voice. Members have begun working collectively to develop initiatives that deepen the sense of belonging for every child and adult across the Trust.
Belonging Council Student Members representing Schools across The 3-18 Education Trust