We’ve created a caring community to support every child
We believe children need an inclusive and nurturing environment to achieve their potential.
The wellbeing of each and every pupil is of paramount importance to us, and we work hard to create an environment where every child feels respected, nurtured and valued.
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St Mary's Preparatory School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the wellbeing of all children and expects parents, staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
Teachers
While every pupil has a form teacher who is primarily responsible for their pastoral care, the community nature of our school means that all of our teachers play an active role in each child’s emotional and personal development, providing support whenever necessary.
Our Head of Pastoral care has oversight of all the needs of the children within school and welcomes visits from children (and parents) at any time to discuss what is troubling them and to help prevent any small concerns growing.
House System
In addition to ensuring each child progresses individually, we want all our pupils to feel part of something special. To engender that team spirit, we have three houses – Neptune, Mars and Jupiter – and run friendly inter-house competitions throughout the year in everything from sport to music and art.
This system helps the children understand how they are part of a larger whole, and encourages them to share in the achievements of others and interact with pupils from other year groups.
Wellbeing
All our pupils take part in an annual wellbeing survey, so we can monitor their needs and respond to them accordingly. Children have access to a variety of ways in which they can share any worries that they may have, and teaching staff check in regularly with pupils of all ages.
Anti-Bullying
We are very proud to have won awards for the effectiveness of our anti-bullying culture, recognised by the Anti-Bullying Alliance for enabling our children to learn in an atmosphere of tolerance and respect.
We have a number of children who are trained Anti-Bullying Ambassadors, who understand what bullying is and how to help their peers. We operate a zero-tolerance approach to bullying or unkindness in any form, working hard to create an environment where every child feels respected and valued.
Creating a caring community
Within school we have a wide range of systems to support our children. From worry boxes and regular check-ins with form teachers, to short sessions with staff trained more specifically in pastoral support, we can put in place support on an individual needs basis. We have a visiting counsellor and play therapist, who supports children with longer term needs. If you are concerned your child may need additional help, this arranged through speaking to Mrs Bodle, our Head of Pastoral care.
All children are encouraged to have a voice, this happens through class discussions which are are managed to ensure everyone is heard, assemblies, PSHE lessons and more formally through check-ins and surveys. We also have an active School Council with reps from Y1 - 6 who feedback children's views to the Senior Leadership Team.
Ultimately our aim is to provide a safe and nurturing community where children feel comfortable and happy, allowing them to make the most of all the educational opportunities open to them.
