Wellbeing in action

Where happiness and academic success go hand in hand

Proactive, structured and embedded into daily life – our approach to wellbeing builds the emotional security that powers academic success.

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Wellbeing in action at St. Aubyn’s

At St. Aubyn’s, wellbeing is not a separate programme that runs alongside academics – it is the foundation that makes academic success sustainable. When children feel safe, known and supported, they engage fully in learning, take confident risks and build the resilience needed for a demanding academic environment.

Our approach is carefully considered and proactively implemented. As a school with a strong ethos and community, we build systems, relationships and environments that offer extensive support for whatever may arise. From Place2Be professional counselling to the Jigsaw PSHE programme, from anxiety workshops to our dedicated wellbeing garden (The Harmony Hub), every aspect of pastoral life is designed to support children as individuals.

Pastoral structures and early help

Class teachers (Nursery to Year 5) and tutors (Year 6) are the first line of pastoral care, responsible for each child’s emotional wellbeing and the primary point of communication with families. Heads of Department provide additional pastoral support when needed.

The ISI noted in May 2025 that “from the early years onward, children learn to recognise and express their emotions with increasing confidence. This enables staff to spot when extra support is needed and to guide pupils in developing strong emotional understanding and regulation.”

Structured pastoral tracking, regular communication with families and a culture where every child is known as an individual mean that concerns are identified early and support is in place efficiently.

“From the early years onward,
children learn to recognise and
express their emotions with
increasing confidence.”

- ISI, May 2025

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qualified nurses
(shared responsibilities)

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qualified nurses
(shared responsibilities)

Professional support and Place2Be

St. Aubyn’s partners with Place2Be to provide on-site professional counselling for pupils who need additional emotional support. This nationally recognised partnership gives children access to a trained counsellor within the school environment – removing barriers and ensuring support is available when it’s needed.

Alongside Place2Be, the school offers anxiety workshops for both pupils and parents, peer support programmes and structured anti-bullying initiatives. Two fully qualified nurses share the responsibilities of the school medical room. A school nurse is available from 8:30am to 5pm every school day, with additional first aiders, many with paediatric first aid qualifications, available for minor illness and injury.

The Jigsaw PSHE programme provides a comprehensive scheme of learning covering emotional literacy, mindfulness, social skills and spiritual development – giving every child the vocabulary and tools to understand and manage their emotions.

The house system and belonging

The house system is the backbone of community life at St. Aubyn’s. Every child belongs to a house from the moment they join the school, giving them a team identity, a sense of belonging and a structure for healthy competition.

“The school is more than just an educational institution; it is a safe and caring community that has provided our girls with the opportunities they need to thrive.”

- Parent

House charity days, sporting competitions, the house singing competition and other inter-house events build friendships across year groups and develop leadership skills. The rewards system based on the ‘St. Aubyn’s promises’, rooted in positive reinforcement, celebrates effort, kindness and contribution alongside academic achievement.

This sense of belonging is central to our Faithfully commitment – a testament as to why our children are happy here. Happy children learn better, engage more confidently and build the resilience they need for the challenges ahead.

See how we support
every child

We invite families to visit, explore our school and experience this balance for themselves.

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Frequently asked questions

Your questions,
answered

Have questions? We’ve got you covered. Check out our FAQs for quick answers!

What are the academic outcomes of St. Aubyn’s pupils

Yes. A 97% five-year 11+ success rate demonstrates our academic strength, delivered without compromising wellbeing.

Will my child be happy?

Our wellbeing provision, pastoral systems and inclusive culture ensure children feel supported, not pressured.

How do you compare to Forest, Bancroft’s or Chigwell?

As well as academic rigour families choose us for our facilities, personal attention, warm community that many clubs are included in the fees.

What if my child needs extra support?

Our specialist SEND team and tailored teaching ensure every child receives what they need to thrive.

Will my child be prepared for senior school?

Absolutely. Our academic outcomes and character development, according to each child’s needs, prepare children exceptionally well for their next stage.

See our school in action with a personal guided tour

We warmly invite you to a personal guided tour with Admissions Registrar, Mrs Helen Madden. During your visit, you’ll explore classrooms, creative spaces, and sports facilities to see how children grow in confidence and curiosity while building firm foundations for a lifetime of learning.

Most importantly, you’ll be in amongst a typical school day, allowing you to gain genuine insight into our nurturing community. Your visit concludes with a relaxed meeting with the Head to answer your questions.

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