When I created Friendology, my dream was simple: I wanted every child to have the skills, language, and self-awareness to build healthy friendships and navigate the normal ups and downs that come with them.

For too long, children have been told to “be friends with everyone” and “be a good friend” and “be kind” — without being explicitly taught how. But friendship is a skill. And, just like reading or maths, skills need to be taught.

That’s why it means so much when schools share the impact they’re seeing through Friendology.

We were thrilled to see two of our incredible Friendology Schools, Francis Holland Prep and Channing School in London, England, featured in The London Magazine’s article, “Friends United”, celebrating the important role friendship education plays in children’s wellbeing.

💚 Read the full article here: The London Magazine, Friends United

The article beautifully captures what educators see every day: Friendship challenges are a normal part of growing up, but when children have the right tools, those challenges become opportunities to learn, grow, and strengthen their relationships.

As Caroline Smith, Senior Deputy Head at Francis Holland Prep, shared: “Relationships are at the heart of everything we do.”

She explained that before introducing Friendology: “Often, conflicts in the playground couldn’t be left at the classroom door, and this was impacting their learning, as they were so consumed by their friendship issue.”

Through Friendology, students learn that friendship is something they can practise. They develop a shared language and practical strategies to manage Friendship Fires®, communicate with kindness, and build relationships that feel good.

Francis Holland Prep shared: “The school has created a common language around friendship, which has been beneficial for its girls.”

Flora Jackson, Head of EYFS at Francis Holland Prep, described the impact: “Friendology curriculum has been transformative. The lessons not only foster essential social-emotional skills but also guide us adults on how to best support them.”

And we especially loved hearing this reflection from one of their Year One students: “This has been the greatest lesson, I’ve learned how to be a good friend.” (Aww! Makes my heart melt!)

Another amazing Friendology School featured in the article, Channing School, shared how friendship education supports children well beyond the classroom. Head, Dina Hamalis, explained: “Learning how to navigate friendships and maintain healthy relationships is a key part of preparing pupils for life beyond school whilst also ensuring their school days are as happy and productive as possible.” She added: “Friendology’s innovative programme empowers our pupils with the skills, language and confidence they need to form meaningful friendships and build positive relationships.”

This is the heart of Friendology.

We are so proud of the schools around the world who are shifting the conversation from simply expecting children to “figure friendship out” to proactively teaching the skills they need to create healthier, happier relationships.

A huge congratulations to Francis Holland Prep and Channing School for championing friendship education. We are so grateful to have you as part of our global community of schools. Friendship is a skill — and together, we’re teaching it.

~ Dana Kerford, Founder