You can pre-order the book here on Waterstones or Amazon
I’m really excited to be sharing our new book, Belonging First, co-authored with Scott Neilson with forward by Siobhán Uí Dhálaigh and published by Bloomsbury, coming in March 2027.
This book is something we’ve been working on with a lot of care, bringing together our experiences, learning and conversations about what it really means to create schools where young people can feel that they belong. It’s about looking beyond simply ‘including’ young people and thinking about what helps them feel safe, valued, understood and able to be themselves at school.
Book Description
Belonging First empowers primary teachers, teaching assistants, SENCos and wider school staff with practical, relationship-focused strategies to create inclusive and supportive environments for every learner. Centred on fostering connection, understanding and meaningful participation, the book offers actionable ideas that can be implemented immediately, helping educators meet diverse needs with confidence and compassion.
From building strong relationships, fostering intrinsic motivation and adapting communication and the environment, Belonging First prioritises approaches that value individuality and promote a sense of belonging for all children. Grounded in best practice and lived experience, this resource equips you to nurture autonomy, build trust,and create spaces where children can engage, connect and learn in ways that work for them.
Throughout the book, readers engage with reflective questions, practice examples and guided activities designed for both individual and group professional development, making it a valuable resource for ongoing learning and discussion.
Whether you’re a teacher, teaching assistant, SENCo or pastoral leader, this book is a practical guide to fostering inclusive, respectful and empowering learning environments.
Publication date: 27 March 2027
Publisher: Bloomsbury
You can pre-order the book here on Waterstones or Amazon
Last modified: 19 September 2026