We are delighted to announce that High Down Infant and Junior schools have been awarded the National Nurturing Schools Award by Nurture UK. The award demonstrates that the school has successfully embedded a nurturing culture that responds to the social, emotional and mental health needs of its pupils.

Andreya Cowan, Headteacher at High Down Infant and Junior Schools said “This is a really exciting achievement for our school and a testament to the dedication of our staff and the nurturing ethos that we have introduced at High Down. We’ve always been a value led school, we care deeply about nurturing our children.”

The award process looked at areas including leadership, policy, community engagement, and pupil support. The School was praised for how well staff know the children and how carefully they shape provision to meet individual needs. Relationships are at the heart of High Down Schools, with a clear emphasis on creating safety both emotionally and physically.

Mathew Welsh, Deputy Head Teacher reflected, “Because of our nurturing approach, children feel safe, it’s a collective effort and it’s something we should be really proud of.”

Children are given opportunities to take responsibility and contribute positively to their school community, with roles such as Wellbeing Ambassadors giving children a voice and a chance to make a difference. Mrs Rachel Hayward, Assistant Head, who led the programme alongside Mrs Cowan commented, “Self-esteem and responsibility are deeply connected so it is extremely important for us to offer the children a range of responsibilities.”

The report from Nurture UK also praised the leadership’s support for the staff, stating that “staff at High Down Schools feel valued and supported in their roles. The Senior Leadership Team operates with an open-door policy, making themselves accessible and approachable, and this has fostered an atmosphere of trust.”

The school has strong wider community connections, for example the School’s longstanding Paint Pals project, now in its 11th year, connects children with residents of a local care home through arts and crafts, fostering meaningful communication across generations in the local community,  and great relationships with families – with parents describing the school as going “above and beyond” to support not only their child but themselves too. As a member of staff reflected, “Everything we do is based on building relationships, relationships with parents is paramount.”

LSP Chief Executive Dr Gary Lewis, commented: “This recognition showcases the dedication of the staff at High Down Schools, who go above and beyond to create an environment which is inclusive, safe and supportive. The Nurture UK six principal approach to supporting children and young people with their learning and wellbeing is something we are embracing across our Trust as we believe this will have a significant impact on the children. At Lighthouse Schools partnership, we believe that education transforms lives for the better and we are incredibly proud of how High Down Schools are helping children to flourish.”