WELLBEING & SUPPORT
wellbeing for life
Wellbeing sits at the heart of life at Blackheath High – it shapes the culture of our school and informs everything we do, from the curriculum to the relationships and support that surround every girl. We understand that happy, healthy students are better equipped to learn, grow and thrive. That’s why we prioritise mental and physical wellbeing throughout the school experience, laying strong foundations that support academic success and personal development, both now and for life beyond school.
AN OPEN APPROACH TO MENTAL HEALTH
We recognise the complex pressures that shape teenage life and believe the most effective support goes beyond access to services alone. Our focus is on equipping students with the skills, confidence and self-awareness to understand, manage and take ownership of their own mental wellbeing. An open, honest dialogue between students, staff and families sits at the heart of this approach, supported by expert insight and evidence-informed practice.
Combining a dynamic PSHE curriculum with Wellbeing Week, peer mentoring, mindfulness opportunities and a range of enrichment activities, results is a culture where students feel confident talking about mental health, capable of navigating challenge, and empowered to look after themselves – not just now, but long after they leave school.
THE NEST
The Nest is our dedicated wellbeing space, an oasis of peace and calm. Students can visit at any time – from making appointments with our counsellor or attending wellbeing and mindfulness sessions, to self-regulating if they feel overwhelmed or in need of a reset.
HOLISTIC PASTORAL CARE
Our dedicated Pastoral Team works cohesively to support all students, and includes a Head of Wellbeing, Heads of Year, SEND team, School Nurse, on-site counsellor, Mental Health First Aiders, Peer Mentors and Wellbeing Class Reps.
Our expert catering team creates a varied, nutritious daily menu using fresh, high-quality ingredients – ensuring every meal supports health and happiness from the inside out.
A TRUE COMMUNITY
From Nursery through to Sixth Form, our students understand that they play an active role in shaping a culture built on kindness, empathy and collaboration. We foster respectful, positive relationships between students, staff and the wider school community, creating an environment where every girl feels seen, supported and valued.
Small class sizes allow teachers to know each student as an individual, offering tailored guidance to help her thrive both academically and personally. Specialist SENCO support ensures that every pupil has the tools and encouragement to achieve and excel.
CONSISTENT, COHESIVE SUPPORT
Continuity is at the heart of our pastoral care. Our carefully designed Year 6 to Year 7 transition programme allows students to build meaningful, individual relationships with teachers. This approach ensures that girls feel a sense of belonging as soon as they join, and that students in every year group are known and get the very best out of school life.
EMPOWERING TOMORROW'S LEADERS
Our ‘big sister, little sister’ approach fosters a strong sense of belonging, with girls forming friendships and mentoring relationships across year groups. Students take on active leadership roles, from Joint Council members and representatives for Wellbeing, Diversity & Inclusion, Charity, Digital and Eco initiatives, to Buddies and Form Captains. These opportunities empower students to develop their voices, take responsibility, and contribute meaningfully to the school community. At Sixth Form, our engaged Head Student Team leads by example, helping to shape a culture of kindness, respect and collaboration.
PART OF THE WIDER COMMUNITY
Being an active participant in the community is more than just what happens at school. We give students the opportunity to get involved in the wider community – from cooking for foodbanks and organising collections and fundraising for charities, to reading with elderly care home residents and devising lessons for local primary school children.
WHERE NEXT?
