Using experts by experience in secondary education: an exploratory study

Can experts by experience help challenge mental health stigma in schools? This research explores their role in secondary education classrooms.

In short
How can experts by experience support secondary school students in developing a more nuanced view on mental vulnerability? This exploratory research investigates how their active involvement—through testimonials, co-teaching, or content development—can enrich social care education and create meaningful learning experiences.

Need and relevance
Young people often develop biased views on mental vulnerability during adolescence. However, service users with lived experience are rarely included in school curricula, especially in vocational study tracks aimed at the care sector. Meanwhile, this sector struggles with image and labour shortages. Giving these experts a voice in the classroom could improve students’ understanding of real-life care experiences and inspire them to consider careers in the field.

From approach to impact
A group of social work students conducted twenty interviews with teachers, school leaders, and support staff, as well as conversations with mental health organisations and the experts by experience themselves. The findings highlight key success factors such as preparation, support, and collaboration. The final report offers actionable insights for schools aiming to embed lived experience in education, and supports a more inclusive narrative around mental vulnerability.