Pastoral Care – Merchants’ Mindset
At Stanfield, we aim to build the skills, confidence and character which are the foundations that will help our children flourish as they navigate their own paths through life. Our children are growing into a complex, uncertain world and need the skills to help prepare for the fast-approaching future.
We have used a research-informed approach to identify key character traits that shape and guide our emotions and actions. At Stanfield, we have introduced a four-part framework called the Merchants’ Mindset, to instil and develop the core values, attitudes, and skills vital for a happy and successful life. Our approach to the development of the whole learner resonates with the schools’ rich history: educating, supporting and inspiring children for over 400 years.
The Merchants’ Mindset is based on five key pillars:
- Extra-curricular opportunities
- Sport provision
- Our curriculum
- Our extraordinary staff
- Safeguarding
There is a real sense of caring among the pupils and we pride ourselves on always being there to give each other an encouraging smile or a sympathetic ear throughout the day. The children themselves have written the school rules which we currently follow, and cheerful good manners and consideration for others are the norm at our school.
This child-centred approach means many opportunities are available for children to work together to achieve success, both individually and as part of a team.
The school council provides a platform for children to develop social skills, gain self-confidence and express their views. The class forums are where every pupil’s opinion matters and will be heard, enabling them to learn the skills to become active citizens.
Fundraising plays a part in school life and encourages children to think about others less fortunate than themselves. This is particularly relevant in a world where there is a tendency for individuals only to see things from their own perspective.
‘Caring for the Individual Time’ is always available for those children who need a little more support and suitable ‘challenge’ is built into the curriculum to keep lively young minds active and alert.
Through our Eco Council, the children participate actively in a range of environmental projects and we are proud to have achieved and retained our Green Flag status. These initiatives encourage our pupils to take their place in society as responsible citizens.
The flourishing house system, extending to the very youngest pupils, encourages good discipline and work habits. The weekly house assemblies provide leadership opportunities for the older children who award younger students with merit badges and other special achievement certificates.
As children progress through Stanfield, they gain the self-assurance to push their boundaries and respond positively to the pace of learning set by the teachers. Excellent resources support well-planned teaching, delivered with imagination, and allow for a wide range of learning styles.
My Happy Mind
Pupils at Stanfield Preparatory School have been taking part in a series of sessions designed to support and strengthen their emotional and mental wellbeing.
The My Happy Mind programme is based on the findings of the latest science and research about what is needed to create positive wellbeing among children of primary school age.
Girls and boys from Reception to Year 6 have enjoyed the varied curriculum, which is delivered across five different modules, each introducing a new set of content and habits to help children build their resilience, self-esteem and confidence.
The five modules help children to understand how their brain works, celebrate their own unique personality, appreciate good things, build healthy relationships and set their own meaningful goals.
Parents have also been able to get involved by using the My Happy Mind parent app, allowing them to reinforce everything their children are learning at school whilst they’re at home.
We are excited to see these happy young minds continue to grow.
