At Windlesham we believe that it is through effective pastoral care that pupils feel at ease, grow in confidence, and can reach their potential. We pride ourselves on developing a deep knowledge of each child and their experiences, which enables us to provide a high level of pastoral care.
Our school is a happy, safe, and caring environment which fosters understanding, individuality, independence, and growth. Everything we do at Windlesham is underpinned by a culture of kindness which is reinforced in lessons, workshops, and assemblies. Our priority is to provide our pupils with the knowledge, skills, and tools to promote their own mental health and wellbeing. In addition to our PSHE curriculum, mental health and wellbeing focus weeks offer a wide range of opportunities and activities to enhance our pupils’ understanding of what it is to be healthy and happy and how they can take the steps to ensure they are looking after themselves. Designated tutor time at the start and the end of the day ensures that class teachers and form tutors can check in with children daily.
Our ‘Learning Powers Toolkit’ encourages and celebrates resilience, independence, co-operation, creativity and reflection, preparing pupils for life beyond the classroom.
All staff at Windlesham are involved and invested in the pastoral care of our children. From the Senior Leadership Team to the catering team and office staff, we pride ourselves on knowing all our pupils and being there to support them.
We also realise the value of working with our Windlesham families to raise awareness of the importance of looking after our own mental health and wellbeing as parents, carers and adults who support children.
House System
At Windlesham our House system is one which encourages a sense of belonging and reinforces the family-like community feel across the whole school.
Our three Houses are named after the historic castles of ‘Arundel’, ‘Bodiam’ and ‘Lewes’.
Through various inter-house competitions, such as sports events and academic challenges, students develop teamwork, leadership skills, and a strong sense of camaraderie. This system not only promotes a spirit of unity but also encourages individual growth and excellence as well as healthy competition.
The House system significantly enhances the impact of buddy programmes by providing a structured framework for peer support and mentorship. Children develop meaningful relationships across different age groups. Older pupils act as buddy readers, playtime pals and help with establishing routines in the classroom. We provide many opportunities for the older children to build relationships with children in younger years, and we are proud of the strong bonds this fosters.
There are many House events throughout the year, across many areas of the curriculum. This blend ensures that everyone has the opportunity to represent their House in an area that they enjoy or are confident in.
