Improving socio‐emotional health for pupils in early secondary education with Pyramid: A school‐based, early intervention model

BACKGROUND: Policymakers are focusing increased attention on the role of schools to promote and support children's mental health, and evidence‐based models of good practice are in demand. Pyramid Club is a school‐based, socio‐emotional intervention, demonstrably effective with primary‐aged pupils. AIMS: This study extends previous Pyramid Club evaluations by examining effectiveness with pupils in early secondary education; service users’ perceptions and experiences were investigated to increase understanding of Pyramid's impact, thus supporting enhanced practice. SAMPLE: Participants (n = 126) comprised selected pupils, aged 11–14 (52 males; 74 females), who completed the 10 week programme (Pyramid group) and a non‐intervention comparison group. Club leaders (n = 23) were trained, Pyramid volunteers. METHODS: A mixed‐methods design was implemented. The Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), informant‐rated version (Goodman, 1997, J Child Psychol Psychiat, 38, 581) and self‐report version (Goodman, Meltzer, & Bailey, 1998, Europ Child Adolesc Psychiatry, 7, 125), was used to measure socio‐emotional well‐being: pre‐club (baseline assessment), post‐test (within 2 weeks of programme completion), and at 12‐month follow‐up (informant‐rated version only). Focus groups were conducted separately with Pyramid pupils and Club leaders. RESULTS: Findings from informants and self‐reports identified significant improvements for the Pyramid group in total difficulties and on pertinent SDQ subscales (e.g., emotional symptoms and peer relationship problems) at post‐test. Improvements were sustained at 12‐month follow‐up. Comparison pupils demonstrated minimal change over time. Thematic analysis of qualitative data supported the quantitative findings and provided valuable insights into the Pyramid Club experience. CONCLUSIONS: Findings contribute to evidence‐based, preventative models for the early adolescent population and support the social validity of Pyramid Club.