Belonging at School – World Café Findings
The DCU Anti-Bullying Centre has published a new report, Belonging at School: Summary Findings from the World Café 2026, capturing key insights from its World Café event held during Anti-Bullying Week 2025.
The World Café, which took place on Thursday, 13 November at DCU’s All Hallows Campus, brought together teachers, students, DCU Anti-Bullying Centre researchers, and external stakeholders. The event created a collaborative space to reflect on how schools can better nurture belonging, inclusion, and positive relationships.
Using the World Café format, participants engaged in structured, small-group discussions across three central themes: Exploring Belonging, Positive School Climate, and Inclusive Schools.
Discussions under Exploring Belonging focused on what helps students feel that they truly belong at school. Participants highlighted the importance of supportive friendships, trusted adults, inclusive teaching practices, and opportunities for students to feel seen, heard, and valued.
At the Positive School Climate tables, participants shared examples of practices that help students feel welcome and supported. These included peer mentoring initiatives, student-led activities, transition support for students moving into post-primary education or joining new schools, and whole-school events such as culture weeks and Pride Week that foster a sense of community. Everyday actions that build connection were also emphasised, even the presence of a school dog, “Chase,” was noted as contributing to a welcoming environment.
The Inclusive Schools discussions explored how schools can ensure fairness, respect, and inclusion for all students, regardless of background, identity, or ability. Participants reflected on the role of school policies, representation within the school environment, and proactive approaches to addressing barriers experienced by minority and marginalised groups.
Throughout the event, DCU Anti-Bullying Centre researchers and external stakeholders facilitated discussions, supporting students in capturing insights that contribute to ongoing research and inform national policy on belonging at school.
The report also acknowledges the support of the Department of Education and Youth through the Cineáltas Action Plan on Bullying, which enabled the event. Particular thanks are extended to all participating schools, teachers, and students whose contributions brought important perspectives to the discussions.
The publication of this report marks an important step in building the Centre’s work on belonging at school and provides a foundation for future research and engagement in this area.
Read the full report:
https://www.dcu.ie/antibullyingcentre/summary-findings-world-cafe-belonging-school-2026