We are working towards our Nurture programme accreditation. Nurture aims to improve the mental health and emotional wellbeing of children and young people in Surrey. It is about looking at our school’s core beliefs combined with our children's needs, and how we can support them to achieve their very best.  

The six principles listed in child-friendly language:

1. Safety - Our school is a safe place to be.
2. Wellbeing - We believe in ourselves.
3. Language - We use our words to talk about how we feel.
4. Transitions - We can cope with changes in our lives.  
5. Learning - We all learn in our own way and in our own time
6. Behaviour - Our behaviour can show how we are feeling.

Principle 1. Safety
Our school is a safe place to be.

From the moment children arrive, they are warmly welcomed at the gate and the classroom door, ensuring they feel valued and secure as they begin their day.

We are committed to creating a nurturing space for all our students. Through Zones of Regulation, we help children recognise and manage their emotions in every classroom. Additionally, our Wellbeing Areas provide safe spaces throughout the school where students can take a moment to reset and feel supported.
We ensure consistency with structured routines throughout the school day, fostering a sense of stability for our learners. Above all, we promote a strong sense of community and belonging by building positive relationships and encouraging mutual respect.

Principle 2. Wellbeing
We believe in ourselves and feel good on the inside.

At St Joseph’s, we value the mental health and emotional wellbeing of every child. We encourage our students to express themselves, seek support, and celebrate their personal growth in a nurturing environment.

How We Support Wellbeing:
 Zones of Regulation – We use this system to help children identify and express their emotions, enabling teachers to support them effectively.
 Special Days & Weeks – We take time to celebrate mental health awareness through dedicated events and activities.
 PSHE Lessons – Across the school, we explore wellbeing through a variety of engaging topics to help children develop confidence, resilience, and self-awareness.

People Who Are Here to Listen:
 Wellbeing Committee – A dedicated team supporting students with their emotional needs.
 Pastoral Team – Offering guidance, encouragement, and a safe space for every child.
 Play Leaders – Helping to create a positive, inclusive playground experience.

Your Voice Matters!
 School Parliament – We listen to students’ ideas, ensuring they feel heard and valued.
 School Surveys – Giving every child the opportunity to share thoughts and shape school life.
At St Joseph’s, we strive to create a welcoming, supportive space where every child feels empowered to express themselves and reach their full potential!

Principle 3. Language
 We use our words to talk about how we feel.

At St Joseph’s, we believe in the power of language to support emotional well-being and connection.
Sharing Our Thoughts & Feelings
 We use our words to express how we feel, helping us understand and support one another.
  We come together in worship and circle times, creating a safe space to share our ideas, thoughts, and emotions.

How We Learn to Communicate:
 We are taught how to express our thoughts and feelings through:- 

• Adult modelling – Teachers and staff demonstrate positive communication.
• Scripting language – Helping children structure their responses and express themselves effectively.
• Zones of Regulation – Supporting emotional awareness and self-regulation.
• Specialist support – Providing help for those with Speech, Language, and Communication Needs (SLCN).
• Through these approaches, we create a community where every child feels heard, valued, and confident in expressing themselves.

Principle 4. Transitions
 We can cope with changes in our lives.  

Change is a natural part of life, and at St Joseph’s, we support our children in navigating transitions with confidence and reassurance.

Preparing for Change:
 Transitions can mean leaving something behind, which may bring feelings of uncertainty or loss. We acknowledge these emotions and provide guidance to help children process them.
  Transition Booklets – Featuring pictures of new classrooms and teachers to help children feel familiar with their new environment before they move.
  Transition Days – Opportunities for children to visit their new classrooms, meet their new teachers, and get a feel for what’s ahead.
  Social Stories – Used to support children through significant changes, such as school trips or celebration days, helping them understand what to expect and feel prepared.
Building Stability
 Routines in Place – Structure helps children feel secure, making changes easier to manage.
  Understanding Our Feelings – Whether big or small, all transitions matter.

We encourage conversations around emotions, helping children express and understand their feelings.
By providing thoughtful preparation and emotional support, we ensure that every child approaches new experiences with confidence and a sense of belonging.

Principle 5. Learning
We all learn in our own way and in our own time.

At St Joseph’s, we celebrate learning in all its forms, recognising that every child develops at their own pace. We foster a love for learning and provide diverse opportunities to support each individual on their unique journey.

How We Support Learning:
 Technology in Learning – Using computers and digital tools to enhance understanding and engagement.
  Now and Next Boards – Helping children structure their learning and prepare for what’s coming next.
  Active Learning – Encouraging hands-on experiences, movement, and practical exploration.
  Experience Days – Special themed days across the school to deepen understanding through immersive activities.
  Outdoor Learning – Taking lessons beyond the classroom to explore and discover in nature.
  Cross-Curricular Links – Connecting subjects to enrich learning and make it more meaningful.
  Emotional & Social Growth – Recognising that development is not just chronological but also emotional and social, ensuring every child receives the support they need.

At St Joseph’s, we believe learning is a journey—one that is exciting, personal, and full of possibilities.

Principle 6. Behaviour
Our behaviour can show how we are feeling.

At St Joseph’s, we understand that behaviour is a form of communication, and we strive to support every child in expressing themselves in positive and constructive ways.

Understanding Behaviour
 The Iceberg of Emotions – What we see on the surface is only part of the picture. Sometimes, deeper emotions lie beneath, and it’s important to explore what might be causing certain behaviours.
  Protecting Against Triggers – We identify and minimize potential challenges that may cause distress, helping children feel secure and understood.

Our Supportive Approach:
 Calm & Consistent Staff – Our teachers and staff respond to moments of crisis with patience and stability, ensuring children feel safe and supported.
  Secure Boundaries & Routine – A structured and predictable environment helps children navigate their emotions and feel grounded.
Restorative Conversations
 Investigating Situations – We take time to explore what happened, considering the impact on others and emotions involved.
  Listening to Feelings – Every child is encouraged to express how they feel and what they need to move forward.
  Moving Forward Together – By understanding experiences and reflecting on solutions, we help children develop positive social and emotional skills.

At St Joseph’s, we believe that every behaviour has a reason, and by nurturing understanding and emotional growth, we empower children to communicate, reflect, and thrive.

Our school Wellbeing Committee have created a video for you to explore further: