A study evaluating the Steps programme, a school-based programme for boys in Key Stage 3 to prevent gender-based violence
This study is testing a school programme called 'Steps' for boys aged 11 to 14 (Years 7, 8, and 9) in Greater Manchester. The programme teaches about healthy relationships, challenges harmful gender ideas, and helps boys understand how to react positively to difficult situations. The study wants to see if Steps helps boys develop healthier views and become more aware of issues like online harm. Some schools will run the Steps programme, while others will continue with normal lessons. Boys will fill out questionnaires to compare results. This research aims to find out if Steps works and how it can help prevent gender-based violence.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is about a school programme called 'Steps' that's designed for boys aged 11 to 14 (that's boys in Years 7, 8, and 9). In the UK, there's growing worry about harmful ideas and violence linked to gender, especially among young people, and how social media can spread these worrying messages. The Steps programme, developed by Salford Foundation, aims to tackle these issues head-on.
The main goal of Steps is to help boys understand and challenge harmful ideas about what it means to be a man or a woman, learn about healthy relationships, and gain confidence to speak up or get help if they see something wrong. This study will check if Steps truly helps boys think differently about harmful gender ideas compared to those who just continue with their usual lessons. It will also look at whether the programme helps boys become more confident in stepping in, change their attitudes to harmful things online, and improve their general wellbeing.
Basically, the research wants to find out if Steps is an effective tool to prevent gender-based violence by educating boys when they are young. It will also look at how the programme is delivered in schools and if there are any unexpected effects. This information will be really important for understanding what works to keep young people safe and promote healthy attitudes.
Key takeaways
- A school programme called 'Steps' is being tested for boys aged 11-14.
- It aims to teach about healthy relationships and challenge harmful gender ideas.
- Boys will either get the 'Steps' programme or normal lessons.
- Questionnaires will be used to see if 'Steps' makes a positive difference.
- The study wants to find effective ways to prevent gender-based violence.
- Trained staff and school support systems are in place for sensitive topics.
Who may be eligible?
To take part in this study, boys need to be between 11 and 14 years old, which means they are in Year 7, 8, or 9 at a secondary school in Greater Manchester.
This includes boys attending alternative schools, which are schools for pupils who might not thrive in a traditional school setting. The Steps programme is for all boys in a year group, not just those thought to be at higher risk.
Boys cannot take part if they are not in Years 7, 8, or 9, are female, or attend a school outside of Greater Manchester. Importantly, parents or guardians can choose to 'opt out' their son, meaning he won't take part.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Is your son male?
- Is your son aged between 11 and 14 years old (Years 7, 8, or 9)?
- Does he attend a secondary school in Greater Manchester?
- Are you happy for him to potentially take part, or have you already opted him out?
What does participation involve?
This study will involve entire school year groups being randomly chosen to either receive the 'Steps' programme or continue with their usual lessons. If your son's school year group is chosen for 'Steps', he will take part in six weekly sessions, each lasting about an hour. These sessions are taught in small groups of around 20 boys and cover topics like gender stereotypes, online harms, healthy relationships, and how to be a supportive person.
Boys in both the 'Steps' group and the 'normal lessons' group will be asked to fill out questionnaires. These questionnaires help the researchers understand how attitudes and behaviours might have changed. The study will also watch how the programme is delivered to see what works well and what could be improved. The study is expected to run from May 2026 to February 2029, with participants completing assessments within that timeframe.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Salford FoundationUnverifiedSalford, England
Common questions
What is the 'Steps' programme?
It's a school programme for boys aged 11-14 that teaches about healthy relationships and challenges harmful ideas about gender.
Who can take part in this study?
Boys aged 11-14 (Years 7, 8, or 9) in secondary schools in Greater Manchester, unless their parent opts them out.
What will boys do in the study?
Some boys will attend weekly 'Steps' sessions for six weeks, while others will have normal lessons. All boys will fill out questionnaires.
Are there any risks to taking part?
Some topics can be sensitive, but trained staff and school support systems are in place to help any boys who find them difficult.
Who is paying for this study?
The Youth Endowment Fund (UK) is providing the money for this important research.
How to find out more
Jade Farrell (nee Morris)
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
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