This book will inform and inspire in equal measure. Education is not just what we teach but the community we create together. Riley's thought leadership around how to create places of belonging- and her belief in empowering teachers- brings us a message of hope and optimism.

Ros McNeil: Assistant General Secretary, National Education Union

Urgent, fearless and profoundly resonant, Leading for School Belonging- How to Navigate the Way Ahead, is a vital anchor in an increasingly fractured and polarised society. It lights the way for school leaders to centre belonging and agency as non-negotiables for schools that seek to serve their communities.

Claudet Hedman, Principal Christ Church (Erith) C of E Primary School

Belonging has been written off for too long as soft, vague, a bit of a buzzword. Kathryn Riley puts that to bed. Belonging is the difference between a child walking through the school gates with their shoulders up or their head down, a staffroom that holds people together and one that quietly pushes them out. With clarity, evidence and example, Kathryn names what so many of us have felt for years: belonging is the secret ingredient and being deliberately human in our schools can make a radical difference.

Dave McPartlin, Headteacher, Flakefleet Primary School, Fleetwood

As a headteacher with the privilege of working with Kathryn Riley, this book speaks directly to the work that matters most. Kathryn Riley combines research, insight and moral purpose to offer a clear, practical framework for building cultures of belonging, where every child, whatever their need or background, feels known, valued and able to thrive.

Mark White, Headteacher, Corley Academy, Thrive Trust

This thoughtful and timely book challenges us to think differently about the experiences of young people in schools and communities. Insightful, practical and deeply human, it offers an important contribution to the conversation around belonging, relationships and education.

Rich Parker-Monks, Deputy Headteacher, Fullhurst Community College, Leicester

Everyone working in and with every school, students, teachers and others, can learn from this powerful book. We are all challenged to be open, compassionate and active in enabling everyone to grow, thrive, and flourish through feeling they belong.

Dame Mary Marsh: Leader and educator who has sought to grow young people and adults in many contexts