Table 3 Key recommendations related to themes for working effectively with schools to conduct health surveys
Theme & sub-theme | Research recommendations |
|---|---|
Recruitment & Retention | |
Priorities & Values | Ensure research project aims reflect school priorities and values. Highlight that this is the case upon recruitment. For example, explain how the project may encourage much needed improvements in student health and well-being, and emphasise how this can have a positive impact on attendance and academic achievement. |
Provide eligible schools, local authorities and academy trusts with evidence of the University/researcher’s reputation and expertise in the project area e.g., university league tables, impact factors, published work. | |
Enable schools to celebrate and publicise their involvement in health research e.g., through an accreditation or logo. This offering, if available, should be communicated during the initial stages of recruitment. | |
Contextual Challenges: Local Authorities vs. Academy Trusts | Recognise the role that both local authorities and academy trusts play in the current English education context. Understand the need to involve and engage both parties for school-based health research. Acknowledge that the relationship between a school and local authority may differ between schools, and that this can determine whether a school will accept recommendations from their local authority with regards to participation in research. |
Recruitment Recommendations | As well as the senior leadership team, seek out the contact details for a member of school staff directly involved in health and well-being (e.g., mental health, PSHE or safeguarding lead), as they can endorse the project to senior leadership internally. |
Aim to commence recruitment of schools following the summer exam period (May–July), make initial contact via email and follow up with a phone call to maximise recruitment success. | |
Practicalities of Data Collection in Schools | |
Complexities of Consent | If possible, gain ethical approval for an opt-out consent method. Discuss with schools how to manage this process so it is least burdensome for them. |
Working Flexibly with Schools | Work flexibly with schools, adapt to their individual needs and preferences. For example, the timing and specific location of data collection. |
Researcher-in-the-Room | Choose in-school in preference to online/at home data collection methods and consider having researchers present in school to lead data collection, when feasible. |
Collaboration from Design to Dissemination | |
Schools Shaping Research & Student Voice | Consult with school staff and young people in the designing and shaping of research. |