Nurturing Student Mental Health and Wellbeing: The Horris Hill Way

The mental health and wellbeing of our pupils is a vital aspect of school life, and never more so than in today’s fast paced and high-pressure world.

At Horris Hill we recognise the importance of fostering a supportive and enriching environment, ensuring healthy development and preparing our pupils for whatever challenges life may bring. Our approach is diverse and flexible; one of Horris Hill’s core values is encouraging individuality and personal flair. Mental health and wellbeing are integrated into many aspects of our school culture and this approach ensures that wellbeing is not an afterthought, but a fundamental part of our ethos.

Our commitment to wellbeing begins with our staff. We have key representatives in both Lower and Upper school trained in child bereavement, ensuring they are equipped to provide sensitive and effective support to pupils who may be experiencing loss. This enables us to create a compassionate environment where students feel understood and cared for during difficult times.

Our tutoring system assigns small groups of students (6-10 maximum) to each tutor. This allows more personalised attention and time for each child. Tutors can closely monitor their tutee’s progress, identify any potential issues early on, and provide tailored support. Consistent staff-student relationships continue throughout our boarding community, and our small boarding houses create a home-like environment. This nurturing atmosphere contributes significantly to their overall wellbeing. Jade Vidler, our Head of Boarding and Pastoral notes; “We really enjoy seeing a different side to the children’s characters in the boarding houses – they come ‘home’ and relax, feeling safe and free to express themselves.”

Understanding the perspectives of our students is crucial. We actively seek their input through Student Voice, Boarding Council and other channels that help us stay attuned to their needs and concerns, allowing us to address them promptly and effectively.

We encourage students to use their voices; to participate in plays, assemblies, and other performance-based activities wherever possible. We feel these are essential for building confidence. These experiences help them develop self-assurance and the ability to express themselves. Our headmaster runs weekly public speaking enrichment sessions and often invites visiting speakers. These sessions enhance students’ public speaking skills and help foster empathy and relationship skills by providing them with diverse perspectives and experiences. In the upper years we offer interview practice sessions to further build confidence and help prepare students for the application and transition to senior school.

We believe wholeheartedly in the therapeutic power of nature. In the Lower School, there is no such thing as ‘wet play’, and the children are outdoors multiple times a day. This connection with the natural world reduces stress and enhances overall wellbeing. The promotion of physical activity in our sports offering plays a significant role in promoting healthy habits, vital for both physical and mental health. Horris Hill offers an increasing variety of sports to ensure that every student can find something they enjoy.

Our weekly and comprehensive PSHE program spans from Reception to Year 8 and addresses various aspects of wellbeing, providing students with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate life’s challenges and maintain their mental health. Through our Chapel services, students explore spiritual growth, reflection, and a sense of community. We have also enlisted the services of a visiting therapist to provide sessions for students in need. Professional support is invaluable in helping students navigate emotional difficulties and develop coping strategies.

Of course, we only too well recognise the therapeutic benefits of dogs at school! Dogs are popular pets among our staff residing onsite, and even more popular among the students; when one makes an appearance it unfailingly brings joy and comfort to many of the children. The presence of a dog helps reduce stress and continues to a positive and welcoming school environment. Our approach to mental health and wellbeing in our children encompasses a wide range of initiatives and practices designed to support multiple aspect of our students' lives. By considering all aspects of their health, be it physical, emotional or mental, we aim to create a nurturing environment where every student can thrive.