The social and emotional skills, knowledge and behaviours that young people learn in the classroom can help them to build resilience and set the pattern for how they will manage their mental health throughout their lives. Emotional wellbeing is a clear indicator of academic achievement, success and satisfaction in later life.

Every year group class has a Form Teacher responsible for the pastoral and academic needs of each pupil. Small class sizes, specialist teaching and a nurturing environment ensures that teachers really get to know all the pupils and their needs. This is key to our strong school community.

Form Teachers liaise with pupils and parents on all aspects of school life as well as acting as guides and mentors. We foster strong parent/teacher relationships, valuing impromptu chats as well as more formal Parent/Teacher Consultations held twice each year.

The Griffin House system plays a fundamental role in our nurturing environment. On entry to Griffin, all pupils (and their siblings) are assigned a House – Sumach, Chequers, Whitleafe or Kimble.

Led by the House Captains, we hold regular competitions, fundraising activities and give pupils the opportunity to discuss relevant pastoral issues. Being part of a House encourages positive team working, respect for others and a healthy competitive spirit. The camaraderie, solidarity and passion pupil develop for their House is second to none too. House points are awarded by staff for good work, effort, or for putting the Griffin core values into practice and being part of a House encourages positive team working and a healthy competitive spirit.

At Griffin House School we take emotional health and mental wellbeing very seriously. We aim to cultivate a safe and nurturing environment in which your child feels that they are taken seriously and listened to. Every class provides a wide range of activities that promote this health and wellbeing including circle time discussions, class and team building activities. Our Wellbeing Lead, Mrs White, oversees this provision for the whole school community.

At Griffin House we consider the health and happiness of our pupils to be of paramount importance. As they progress through the school the children grow in self-confidence and enjoy lasting friendships when they leave.