A commitment to whole-school wellbeing

For On Track Education - Wisbech, achieving the Wellbeing Award for Schools was about much more than receiving accreditation. The school wanted to strengthen its whole-school approach to mental health and wellbeing, ensuring that pupils and staff felt supported, valued and able to thrive.

The award provided an opportunity to reflect on existing practice while creating a clear framework for embedding wellbeing into every aspect of school life.

Recognising opportunities for improvement

Throughout the process, the school identified areas where it could further strengthen engagement with the wider school community. It recognised the importance of giving pupils, parents and staff a stronger collective voice, while also expanding professional development so that all staff felt confident in supporting children's mental health and wellbeing.

This reflective process helped the school develop a more consistent and joined-up approach across the organisation.

Taking action

To bring these ambitions to life, the school introduced a range of new initiatives.

Mental health and wellbeing fairs welcomed local organisations into school, helping families access valuable support services while strengthening links with the local community. At the same time, a structured programme of continuing professional development was introduced, equipping staff with practical strategies and increasing confidence in recognising and supporting wellbeing needs.

These initiatives have become an integral part of the school's ongoing commitment to wellbeing.

The impact on the school community

The changes have had a positive impact across the whole school community. Parents and carers feel more connected to the school and better informed about the support available to them, while staff have developed greater confidence and consistency when responding to pupils' wellbeing needs.

Most importantly, pupils know they have trusted adults they can turn to when they need support. Feeling safer, more secure and better understood has enabled them to engage more positively with their learning and develop greater resilience in the classroom.

Looking ahead

The school is committed to building on the progress already made. Future plans include strengthening pupil voice, continuing to expand staff wellbeing training and maintaining strong partnerships with local services to ensure families continue to receive the support they need.

Regular evaluation will ensure wellbeing remains firmly embedded within the school's culture.

Reflections on the journey

Senior Mental Health Lead Natasha Moore described the award as a valuable opportunity for reflection.

'The process encouraged us to reflect honestly on our practice and helped us develop a more consistent whole-school approach to wellbeing. Although it was challenging at times, it has led to lasting improvements that will continue to benefit our entire school community.'

Advice for other schools

On Track Education – Wisbech recommends the Wellbeing Award for Schools to any school looking to strengthen its wellbeing provision. While the process requires time, commitment and genuine reflection, the school believes the lasting benefits for pupils, staff and families make it an incredibly worthwhile journey.

Interested in achieving the same impact?

The Wellbeing Award for Schools helps schools develop a sustainable, whole-school approach to emotional wellbeing and mental health. It provides a framework to strengthen pupil support, staff wellbeing, family engagement and inclusive practice.

👉 Find out more about the award and how your school can begin its wellbeing journey today.