As the world becomes ever more complicated, it’s important for students to know they are supported by their teachers.
During the 2024-25 academic year, the Department for Education surveyed how students felt about school, gaining their views of enjoyment and safety, motivation to learn and relationships with staff. The findings were published in the Pupil experiences in school: academic year 2024 to 2025 document at the end of last year.
Relationships with staff are at the centre of a successful and productive school experience. Researchers looked at this area in detail, discovering both progress and ongoing challenges, which provided new insights into how students feel about the adults in their schools.
The report brings together new data, together with that previously published in other surveys, to provide a fuller picture of findings.
Gauging relationships with staff
Secondary students in years 7 to 11 were asked how often there is an adult at school who:
- really cares about me
- listens to me
- believes that I will be a success
- tells me when I do a good job.
Students rated these statements on a scale from “never” to “always”, with the findings showing encouraging trends over recent years.
In May 2025, 57% of students reported that there is often or always an adult at school who really cares about them – a significant jump from 50% in May 2024. This increase suggests that more students are feeling genuinely supported and valued by at least one adult in their school community.
Listening is another vital aspect of supportive relationships. This year, 61% of students said there is often or always an adult who listens to them when they have something to say – up from 56% in May 2024. This indicates a steady improvement in students’ sense that their voices are heard.
Belief in students’ potential also improved, with 63% of respondents saying there is often or always an adult who believes they will be a success, compared with 55% in the last year. This measure shows the confidence and encouragement communicated by teachers and other staff.
Recognition of achievement also increased. In May 2025, 59% of students said an adult at school often or always tells them when they do a good job, compared with 52% the previous year.
What this means
The statistics suggest an improvement in student/staff relationships, where students feel more seen and listened to. They highlight the importance of adult support to help students feel valued, understood and motivated.
The DfE will continue to monitor students’ experiences over the coming years with the aim of providing schools with the information they need to provide a positive learning experience.
References
- Pupil experiences in school: academic year 2024 to 2025. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/student-experiences-in-school-academic-year-2024-to-2025 (Accessed 13 January 2026)
