From Old School Pond To Pastoral Pride

Highfield and Brookham School has underlined its strong emphasis on enhancing pupil wellbeing by expanding and enriching its outdoor spaces.

Rooted in a belief that nature plays a vital role in fostering emotional resilience and happiness, the school has transformed under-utilised areas into vibrant, purposeful wellbeing zones that reflect the voice and needs of the children.

A standout project has been the redevelopment of the former pond area near the Prep school science labs into a dedicated wellbeing garden, co-designed by the school’s pupil council. This little-used area has been brought back to life as a tranquil retreat, where children are encouraged to relax, chat and connect with one another during breaktimes.

With its serene setting and calming environment, the green space is already having a significant impact on pupils’ emotional health and peer relationships.

Plans are in place now to develop the area further as an outdoor learning space, blending curriculum delivery with the proven mental health benefits of being in nature.

Running hand in hand with the transformation of the old pond, the school’s Pre-prep Eco Club has taken on the restoration and creation of a wellbeing garden of its own. This space has become a cherished part of the school day, used by younger pupils during breaks and lunchtimes. With their hands in the soil and surrounded by nature, the children experience a sense of responsibility, connection and calmness that is difficult to replicate in the classroom alone.

Empowering pupils to shape their own environment and wellbeing experience has been a central theme at Highfield and Brookham, and school Head Suzannah Cryer said: “Modern life is stressful for people of all ages, including children who face many pressures and suffer many anxieties growing up, so to have dedicated wellbeing spaces to relax, reset and unwind is worth its weight in gold. The fact that the children have been actively involved in the whole process of regenerating the old pond into a wellbeing garden makes the project extra special.”

And Mrs Cryer added: “We look forward to seeing children making full use of the calming green space for many years to come.”