Highfield School shortlisted for Talk Education award for pastoral care and wellbeing
4th September 2026
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Highfield School has been shortlisted in the Pastoral Care and Wellbeing category of the Talk Education Awards for Innovation in Education 2026.
Now in their fifth year, the Talk Education Awards celebrate schools developing innovative ideas that are helping to shape the future of education. Hundreds of schools from across the world were considered for this year’s awards, with the shortlist chosen by an editorial panel of experienced researchers, educational experts, former heads, teachers and advisers.
Highfield is one of five schools shortlisted in the Pastoral Care and Wellbeing category, which recognises initiatives that make an exceptional contribution to the care and emotional wellbeing of pupils. The co-educational day and boarding school welcomes children aged 2–13 to its 175-acre setting in the South Downs in Liphook, Hampshire, where a strong pastoral provision ensures that every child is known and supported throughout their school journey
Highfield was shortlisted for its whole-community approach, which brings together children, staff and families. The school’s work includes its own weekly wellbeing tracker, specialist pastoral support and opportunities for parents to engage with important issues affecting young people.
Its approach also reflects a willingness to begin difficult conversations early. Recent work has explored subjects including emotional regulation, worry, misogyny and the manosphere, while a developing programme focused on boys’ mental health is being shaped by the experiences and views of pupils themselves.
Mrs Suzannah Cryer, Head of Highfield School, said: “We are thrilled to have been shortlisted for a Talk Education Award in recognition of our approach to pastoral care and wellbeing.
“This reflects the care our staff show every day and the close relationships they build with our children and families. It is particularly meaningful to be recognised for work that is so central to who we are as a school.
“We are very proud to be shortlisted alongside other schools doing thoughtful and innovative work in this important area.”
The winners of the Talk Education Awards for Innovation in Education 2026 will be announced at 11am on Thursday 10 September.