We recognise that pupils are more than their academic achievement and we recognise and value the children as unique individuals. In addition, we believe that our pupils have the right to learn in a happy, caring and safe environment and this includes the right to protection from all types of abuse.
That’s why Twickenham Prep School is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and expects all staff, governors, volunteers and visitors to share this commitment.
Ensuring the health and wellbeing of our pupils and staff is integral to the work we do and we pride ourselves on taking exceptional care of our pupils mentally, physically and academically.
We are aware that safeguarding incidents could happen anywhere and staff should be alerted to possible concerns raised at the school. TPS recognises that safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility and all staff receive regular training; they remain alert for signs of any pupils in distress and are confident about applying safeguarding processes.
Any concerns about the safety or wellbeing of someone at our school should be raised with the school’s key members of staff. Please see the details below.
Mental health and wellbeing
The mental health and wellbeing of the pupils, staff and parents is a key consideration at TPS, with strong focus on establishing a culture in which every member of the community is valued and recognised for their talents and achievements. For example, our weekly Celebration Assembly features children nominated for upholding the school values of being ‘Courteous’, ‘Considerate’, ‘Courageous’ and ‘Calm’, along with recognition for achievements and progress in school and beyond.
We also emphasise the importance of the development of emotional literacy and self-awareness: younger children in Pre-Prep learn about the Zones of Regulation and the older children attending BOUNCE workshops. The BOUNCE programme, run by the Raising Resilience team, is a cornerstone of the PSHE programme, teaching the children how to manage their emotions, ‘bounce back’ from disappointments and who to turn to in times of difficulty.
Our pastoral teams across the school regularly discuss children and their relationships, working closely with colleagues and visiting staff, including experts such as occupational and speech and language therapists, to ensure a collaborative and supportive approach.
Children, staff and parents all have a voice in aspects of the school’s development, resourcing and policy decisions. Our active School Council features representation from across the school, along with a vibrant House, buddy system and class partnership programme, all of which bring the community close together.
Mental health and wellbeing is overseen by the Senior Mental Health Lead, the Headmaster, Mr Oliver Barrett, along with Mental Health Champions who are part of the Mental Health Action Group.