At Sherborne House School , we take immense pride in our comprehensive advantages – academic, enrichment and leadership – offered through our educational provisions; and also, in the realm of wellbeing. The intertwining of academic excellence, enrichment opportunities, and a proactive approach to mental health creates a nurturing environment, which we believe lays the foundation for lifelong learning. Our aim is to ensure our children not only succeed academically but also flourish as individuals equipped with healthy minds.
Our commitment to continually reflect on, develop, and improve the delivery of our wellbeing advantage is a testament to the amazing strides we are making in support of our children’s emotional and mental wellbeing. We recognise the importance of this facet of education, especially in today’s fast-paced world, where young minds face a plethora of challenges that can impact their mental health now, and in the future.
The following examples are just a ‘snapshot’ of the many initiatives illustrating our dedicated approach to fostering wellbeing within our school.
Our approach to wellbeing is further enriched by the ethos of a growth mindset that we cultivate at SHS. Through our PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic) education, we instil in our children the belief that making mistakes is a natural part of the learning process and an opportunity for growth. Students are empowered to reframe negative thoughts into positive affirmations using the power of the word ‘yet’, reinforcing the idea that challenges are stepping stones towards success. This mindset not only enhances academic performance but also nurtures resilience and self-esteem.
In an effort to promote a culture of positivity and kindness throughout our school, we have implemented the role of Wellbeing Ambassadors. These young leaders work collaboratively with myself and Miss Bellars, to foster an environment that champions respect, care, and emotional wellbeing. They are tasked with developing strategies that encourage both pupils and staff to embrace kindness, thereby creating a supportive network that nurtures the heart and mind of our school community.
Understanding that self-regulation is a vital skill that everyone continually develops, we have embraced the Zones of Regulation framework. This approach enables our children to identify their emotional states and recognise when they are becoming less regulated. The ability to manage feelings and return to a state of calm can, for some, require ongoing attention and practice. By fostering an awareness of emotional regulation, we empower our children with the skills necessary to navigate their feelings and reactions effectively.
One of the most notable achievements at Sherborne House is our receipt of the AcSEED Award, substantiating our role as the first independent school in Hampshire to gain this prestigious accreditation which is awarded until 2026. The AcSEED initiative is renowned for promoting the adoption of best practices in supporting the emotional wellbeing and mental health of young people within UK schools and colleges. According to Charlotte Gatherer, the founder of The AcSEED Initiative, “The AcSEED assessment team were particularly impressed by the strong wellbeing ethos at Sherborne House School, by their comprehensive range of mental health and wellbeing provisions supporting both pupils and staff, and by their close collaboration with external wellbeing organisations and with parents. We are therefore delighted to announce that Sherborne House School has been accredited with The AcSEED Award”.
Another initiative that enhances our commitment to wellbeing is our ‘Ask-it’ baskets located in each classroom. These accessible baskets provide our children with the opportunity to ask any question anonymously, ensuring that if a child has a sensitive question, they feel comfortable seeking assistance, fostering an atmosphere of trust and openness within our classrooms.
Integral to our school’s culture are our House Points and Celebration Assemblies. By encouraging a team ethos across the school, we unite children of all ages with a common goal, promoting a sense of community and cooperation. The acknowledgment of achievements, be they academic or well being-related, during our Celebration Assemblies bolsters the children’s confidence and serves as a powerful reminder of the collective effort toward promoting a supportive and inclusive environment.
Additionally, the natural world plays a significant role in our approach to wellbeing through our Forest School programme. This initiative is instrumental in developing physical motor skills, self-confidence, and emotional awareness amongst our children. Immersing themselves in nature allows our children to not only enhance their physical capabilities but also cultivates a deeper emotional connection with the world around them, thereby nurturing their overall wellbeing.
Lastly, our Wellbeing Garden stands testament to our belief in the restorative power of nature. We understand that spending time outdoors enhances the lives of our children, fostering calmness and providing a serene backdrop for reflection and social interaction. The garden serves as a safe haven where our children can recharge, communicate with peers, and enjoy outside classroom lessons.
Our approach to wellbeing at Sherborne House is an intrinsic part of our educational philosophy. We are dedicated to creating an environment where our children are supported in their academic pursuits while simultaneously nurturing their emotional and mental health. The various programmes and initiatives we have implemented affirm our commitment to the holistic development of our children, empowering them to thrive not only as learners but as well-rounded individuals prepared to navigate the complexities of life. We are excited to continue this journey, collectively striving to enhance the wellbeing of our children, ensuring they possess the resilience, empathy, and confidence required to flourish in an ever-changing world.
Mrs Holmes
Head of PSHE & Wellbeing
