Navigating public health research in UK secondary schools: key challenges and opportunities identified by researchers

Researchers identified significant barriers within the 'Inner' settings (internal research processes) and 'Outer' settings (external school environment and policy landscape). Research delivery was hindered by post-pandemic school priorities-specifically academic recovery and mental health support which limited the feasibility of maintaining adolescent engagement and school access. Researcher-led adaptations emerged as a critical, yet often hidden, component of maintaining trial fidelity. The study concludes that reflexive 'insider' perspectives and flexible designs are essential to align research with shifting school priorities. These adaptive strategies provide a blueprint for more resilient and feasible public health interventions.