Thomas Arnold Primary School has been awarded another three awards for its work using the Thrive Approach to support the mental wellbeing of pupils and their families.

Thrive trains teachers and other education professionals to support the emotional and social development of all children.

The school was named a Thrive Ambassador School earlier this year and has since earned praise for its focus on emotional wellbeing and the resulting positive impact on pupils and the wider community.

Other achievements noted were the strong connection between staff and pupils, creating a firm foundation for learning and the school’s success in helping children to understand their emotions.

“We have seen such a positive shift in behaviour as a result; our behaviour sanctions have decreased significantly, and children are now able to communicate their needs and talk about why they might be struggling."

Acting Headteacher, Holly Pottle, said: “Having this focus on mental wellbeing has become an integral part of school life, and the pupils, staff and parents are all committed to this approach.

“We have seen such a positive shift in behaviour as a result; our behaviour sanctions have decreased significantly, and children are now able to communicate their needs and talk about why they might be struggling.

“There has been a real change in the atmosphere at school – the children are more confident, and they have a better relationship with staff.

“Attainment levels have also improved as a result of children being in class, calm and ready to access learning.”

Thrive applauded senior managers and governors for prioritising mental wellbeing, recognising it as the foundation for successful learning and life skills.

Councillor Evelyn Carpenter, Cabinet Member for Educational Attainment and School Improvement, said: “I’m delighted to see staff at Thomas Arnold Primary getting the recognition they deserve for supporting pupils and their families through what has been a very challenging time.

“It’s so important to prioritise children’s mental wellbeing to ensure they are happy, healthy and get the best out of their education.”

After a visit to the school, Alistair Dewar, Thrive Relationship Manager for London, commented: “Thomas Arnold is a fantastic example of a school that has placed mental wellbeing at the heart of everything it does.

“They richly deserve the success they have had, and it’s particularly encouraging to read first-hand the impact this focus on promoting positive wellbeing has had on the pupils themselves.”