Belonging: Student Voice
Evie and Liv | Year 11 | 26 August 2024
Hi everyone, we’re Olivia and Evie, and we are writing today to speak to the school community about something truly important - how we can all help each other feel like we belong at St Luke’s.
Belonging isn’t just about fitting in; it’s about being valued and accepted for who you truly are. Every one of us deserves that, and it’s up to us to make it happen. Creating a sense of belonging starts with challenging stereotypes. We all have unconscious biases that can affect how we treat others. Today, think about how you can look beyond first impressions and see each person as an individual. How can you help someone feel recognised for who they really are? Putting away your phone, giving someone your undivided attention can really make someone feel heard and seen.
Empathy is a wellbeing disposition that we need for belonging. When we take the time to understand others’ feelings and respond with kindness, we build a more supportive community. Consider how you can practice empathy today. Maybe it’s by reaching out to someone who seems left out or by simply listening when someone needs to talk. How can you show that you care?
Embracing diversity is also key to building a community of belonging at St Luke’s. We’re all unique, with different backgrounds, interests, and identities. When we celebrate these differences, we create an environment where everyone feels seen and appreciated. For example, I (Evie) love to do science-based subjects at School whilst Liv likes to do more English-based subjects. Liv and I both relate to each other despite our differences and help each other feel like we belong and are a part of our School community. Today, ask yourself: How can I show someone that their uniqueness is valued? It could be as simple as starting a conversation or inviting them to join in an activity.
If you or someone you know is dealing with bullying, don’t hesitate to seek help. Help people feel as though they belong, even if they are different to you. Be an upstander and don't let others put people down and hurt their sense of belonging.
There are people here who care about you and want to support you. Let’s work together to ensure everyone at St Luke’s feels they belong. So today, ask yourself: How can you help someone belong?
