Headteacher, Mrs Sotiria Vlahodimou said:

“We are delighted to be shortlisted for this national award. Our team are talented, passionate and hardworking; it is wonderful for them to receive this recognition and get the academic year off to a great start! At Slindon College we have embedded robust mental health initiatives which provide a supportive environment. Our programmes enhance self-esteem, strengthen the school community, and promote healthy choices.”

Providing outstanding pastoral care is at the heart of life at the College and our submission to the ISA awards detailed the wellbeing focused initiatives our experienced and committed teachers have put in place. Our Mental Fitness Team, led by Adam Sharpe provides unwavering support for pupils’ emotional security, confidence and overall mental health.

Our Mental Fitness Team run a range of initiatives from weekly Woodland Walks, a ‘time to talk’ programme, individual pupil meetings, daily reflection and our Interventions Learning Support Assistants are on hand to support pupils’ emotional well-being.

A key new concept known as ‘Learning Energy’, devised by the team at Slindon, encourages pupils to promote their self-regulation and wellbeing. Learning Energy enables pupils to access strategies to support their learning, be calm and comfortable within the classroom when their energy levels are either too high or low. Pupils are encouraged to communicate how they are feeling and nurture themselves to make healthy choices when they don’t feel ready to learn.

Adam Sharpe said:

“As a small school we are thrilled to be a finalist in these awards. To provide the support we do for all our pupils involves the entire school community. From the food we serve through to our forest school and support staff, teachers and Learning Support Assistants, everyone plays a part in what we offer to our pupils.”