There are so many things to consider when you’re choosing a school for your child. Whilst academic results are important, a school’s approach to pupil wellbeing could be the key to your child’s success during their studies and beyond. Here’s seven things to consider when you’re looking for a school that will not only nurture academic success, but also resilience, confidence, and emotional wellbeing.
1. A well-rounded approach to education
Young people who feel supported and happy in their school community, confident, and able to tackle challenges are much more likely to achieve academic success. A well-rounded approach to education, where wellbeing is valued just as much as academic success is crucial to children’s long-term development.
A balance of academic focus with relaxation, play, and creativity helps pupils avoid burnout and develop a life-long love of learning. Extracurricular activities, creative projects, and social events all help to foster creativity, and allow pupils to unwind and explore their interests beyond academics.
2. Dedicated wellbeing resources: pastoral care
A good pastoral provision is crucial to pupil wellbeing. Whether through counselling services, mental health resources, or wellbeing workshops, pastoral support teams are there to help pupils navigate personal challenges that may impact their academic journey.
The pastoral team at The Queen’s School in Chester is there to equip girls with tools that will serve them through life. Head of Pastoral at Queen’s, Lorraine Jones says: “For those who may need extra support during their transition or beyond, we have a dedicated pastoral support worker in our Pastoral Hub who offers a warm cup of cocoa and a listening ear, providing a safe space for reassurance and guidance.”
Lorraine continues: “All the Key Stages also have a separate office with space for conversation to take place between girls and the Pastoral Team and our ‘Respect Programme’ equips girls with the tools to navigate the complexities of friendship dynamics, nurturing empathy and conflict resolution skills.
“We take pride in our Wellbeing and Diversity Committees, cultivating a culture of inclusivity and mutual respect. Through focused initiatives on online safety and positive relationships, we empower our pupils to become responsible digital citizens.”
3. The role of teachers and form tutors
Teachers and form tutors play a vital role in pupil wellbeing. When children know they have a supportive adult to turn to, they are more likely to feel safe and understood. This helps to build their confidence and willingness to take on academic challenges. Teachers are also well-equipped to identify signs of stress and anxiety, and offer guidance and support.
4. Peer support systems
Children are much more likely to thrive at school when they feel supported by their peers. School House systems offer pupils a sense of belonging, identity and purpose. Being part of a House encourages teamwork, camaraderie, healthy competition, and community spirit.
The House System is integral to pupil wellbeing at The Queen’s School. Head of Co-Curricular Becci Broome says: “Our House system at both the Lower and Senior School is very important to the sense of family that exists at Queen’s. Girls are allocated a House on arrival with us and soon grow attached to their House buddies within their class and within different year groups. House events include sports days and our annual biathlon, drama, poetry and debating competitions, ad hoc curriculum-based competitions, charity events, quizzes and assemblies. The system is an excellent way for all girls to learn from and understand how it feels to represent a wider group of their friends and peers.”
5. How parents can support wellbeing
Parents play a crucial role in helping their children to manage academic goals and personal wellbeing. A nurturing environment at home, that provides support and encouragement, helps boost confidence and resilience.
At The Queen’s School, parents are an important part of the community. Headmistress, Joanne Keville, says: “Responsibility for the happiness and all-round development of each girl stems from an effective partnership between parents and the school. We like to operate an ‘open door’ policy if parents have any worries or concerns about any aspect of their daughter’s welfare or progress. We have a proactive approach to positive mental wellbeing.”
6. The importance of outdoor education
Spending time outside in nature is proven to reduce stress and improve focus. Outdoor education promotes physical health, and also teaches life skills such as problem-solving, resilience, and teamwork. Structured outdoor activities help pupils to gain confidence and allow them to face challenges in a non-academic setting. These experiences give young people a break from the academic pressures of the classroom, enabling them to return to their studies refreshed.
The Queen’s School has a vast co-curricular programme and outstanding outdoor learning provision, including Beach and Forest School. Head of Lower School, Iona Carmody says: “Outdoor education is more than just a break from the classroom; it’s a vital part of our girls’ development. It fosters a spirit of adventure and encourages them to connect with nature, building resilience and confidence that translate back into their academic lives.”
7. Mental health and the curriculum
Incorporating mental health into the curriculum empowers pupils to take ownership of their wellbeing. Schools can open up conversations around mental health by providing regular mindfulness sessions, mental health workshops, and structured wellbeing check-ins. This supportive environment helps young people to develop resilience.
Final thoughts
Achieving a balance between academics and wellbeing involves a collaborative approach involving schools, parents, peers, and pupils. The Queen’s School truly understands that academic excellence and a strong focus on wellbeing pave the way for pupil success. The nurturing environment prioritises each girl’s individual needs, creating a sense of belonging while encouraging her to reach her full academic potential. By combining rigorous academics with comprehensive pastoral care, supportive relationships, and a commitment to inclusivity, girls are given the tools they need to navigate both their educational journeys and the wider world with confidence.
This is a sponsored post created in collaboration with The Queen’s School, an independent school for girls aged 4–18 in Chester.
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