Evidence-based SEL and SEMH programme is found to help primary children ‘find their voice’
A large two-year quasi-experimental research study on the effectiveness of the Hamish & Milo Programme finds statistically significant improvements in pupils’ social and emotional competencies and positive outcomes observed across the whole school community including a reduction in school exclusions and behavioural escalations; and improved relationships, learning engagement and wellbeing.
Children’s social, emotional and mental health needs have seen a dramatic rise in recent years, particularly following the pandemic. Evidence strongly suggests that fostering wellbeing and emotional health during childhood is a key predictor of long-term life satisfaction and overall success. Schools play a crucial role in providing stable, nurturing environments that support social and emotional learning (SEL) and mental health, particularly for vulnerable pupils facing adversity. Evidence from the literature demonstrates that mainstream school settings can meet these growing demands with the provision of evidence-based SEL programmes.
In collaboration with the University of Bath, a large-scale two-year study to evaluate the effectiveness of the Hamish & Milo Programme, which aims to support the development of social and emotional competencies in primary-aged children and to enhance wellbeing through the provision of targeted social, emotional and mental health support through structured small-group sessions is now published and confirms statistically significant:
- Improvements in emotional regulation, conduct, peer relations
- Reduction in exclusions and behavioural incidents
- Increased engagement, confidence and learning
Positive feedback from schoolwide staff, parents and pupils
Significant positive outcomes were observed by school leaders, teachers, pastoral practitioners, and parents alike, who reported that after engagement with the Hamish & Milo Programme the children “found their voice,” their self-esteem and confidence increased so they could more easily share their feelings and experiences and ask for help and support when they needed it. Staff observed better classroom attitudes, with pupils more independent in learning and fewer crisis incidents requiring exclusion. Parents noticed their children were happier and more settled at home.
Key highlights
Significant gains in SEL outcomes
Schools saw clear improvements in children’s social and emotional skills, with better self-awareness, resilience and self-regulation reported after the programme children were able to experience more empathy and build stronger, long-lasting social connections.
Higher pupil engagement and wellbeing
Teachers noted improved relationships, increased engagement and a more positive attitude towards learning and happier, calmer pupils thriving in class.
Reduction in exclusions and behavioural incidents
Participating schools experienced a decrease of dysregulated behaviours and school exclusions after the intervention.
Benefits for vulnerable groups
The programme proved particularly effective for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), pupils with existing social, emotional or mental health difficulties (SEMH), and those from disadvantaged backgrounds experiencing adversity.
The scope of the Hamish & Milo University of Bath project
A rigorous quasi-experimental mixed-methods research approach was employed, using a range of outcome measures.
The Hamish & Milo University of Bath project was implemented between September 2022 and September 2024 and consisted of two phases:
- Phase 1 – Evaluate the effectiveness of the Hamish & Milo Programme using a range of measures.
- Phase 2 – Compare outcomes of pupils participating in the Hamish & Milo Programme against standardised UK norms, and explore the perceptions of school staff engaged with the Hamish & Milo Programme to answer the following research questions:
- Does the Hamish & Milo Programme work effectively?
- Who benefits from the Hamish & Milo Programme?
- Under which circumstances does the Hamish & Milo Programme work best?
- Why is the Hamish & Milo Programme effective?
To explore the research methodology, impact data, and implementation strategies, view the full research report.
