Nurture groups in a Scottish secondary school: purpose, features, value and areas for development

Abstract

Nurture groups (NGs) are increasingly being established in Scottish secondary schools yet research in this context is limited. The current study explores the purpose, features and value of two NGs in a Scottish secondary school through interviewing current and former NG members, parents/carers, NG staff and other school staff. A thematic analysis of the findings suggests that the two NGs offer young people a smooth transition from primary, prepare them physically and emotionally for learning, encourage friendships and equip them with social skills. However, optimal function and gains are compromised by systemic gaps in formal communication, monitoring and reintegration processes across the school and between school and home, among others. These factors are discussed in the context of their importance in supporting generalisation of skills outwith the NG and the function of the wider organisation.

Keywords:

• nurture group
• secondary school
• Scotland