The happiness and welfare of every child lie at the heart of what we do. In our Nursery and Reception in Guildford, we shape our wellbeing programme around the needs of our youngest learners, so they feel known, safe and cared for from their very first day.
Nursery & Reception Wellbeing
ISI Report 2025Leaders prioritise and support pupils’ physical, mental and emotional health well.
ISI Report 2025Pupils feel well-supported in school.
ISI Report 2025A robust safeguarding culture across all parts of the school.
Emotional
Check-Ins
In Nursery and Reception, students engage in an emotional check-in with their teachers at the beginning of each day, expressing their feelings through discussions related to the story of the Colour Monster and identifying when they feel the same. This provides a quick, non-verbal communication method for pupils and helps our staff identify those who may need some extra support.
Our Buddy System
The buddy system pairs younger students with pupils in Key Stage 1, promoting positive role modelling, empathy, and friendships across Year Groups.
Physical Education & Outdoor Learning
Recognising the importance of physical activity in promoting positive mental wellbeing, our Early Years pupils have a lesson with specialist games staff each week using the facilities in the Prep school, and sessions on the astro at Pre-Prep. Beyond sports, pupils enjoy our Outdoor Learning area, a delightful space for exploration and learning about nature through hands-on activities.
Wellbeing Events
We host a Wellbeing Week in support of Children’s Mental Health, featuring activities such as mindfulness crafts, silent discos, and joke-telling. Our annual Hygge Day, celebrating the Danish concept of creating a warm atmosphere, invites pupils to wear cosy clothes and bring their soft toys.
PSED & Additional Support
Our PSED curriculum helps our pupils to recognise their feelings and others, understand behaviour and build relationships. The curriculum also equips pupils with knowledge on staying safe and provides guidance on who to approach if they encounter any issues. For those needing additional support, we offer drawing and talking therapy, targeted assistance, and the expertise of an Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA).
Safeguarding
Mr Freeman-Day, the Head of RGS Prep, serves as our Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), supported by several Deputy DSLs, including Mr Moore (Deputy Head), Mrs Petersen (EYFS Coordinator), and Mrs Self (Head of Wellbeing).
Wellbeing FAQs
How do you help children settle in?
Through emotional check ins, a buddy system with older children, familiar routines and a key adult who gets to know each child well.
Who is responsible for safeguarding?
The Head of RGS Prep is our Designated Safeguarding Lead, supported by a team of Deputy DSLs including our EYFS Coordinator.
What pastoral support is available?
As well as everyday care from our team, we offer drawing and talking therapy, targeted support and an Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA).