A Guide for Parents: How to Choose a Prep School That Prioritises Both Results and Well-being
Choosing the right prep school is one of the most significant decisions a parent can make. In a world where academic pressure seems to start earlier and earlier, the search for a school that strikes the perfect balance between academic rigour and pastoral care is more important than ever.
The ideal school environment is one where children not only achieve excellent results but also develop into resilient, confident and well-rounded individuals. This article explores how at The Mead School (Tunbridge Wells, Kent) we do both.
The Importance of Nurturing Environments and Small Class Sizes
In the early years of a child’s education, a nurturing environment is crucial for building a strong foundation. A key factor is the size of classes. Schools with small class sizes allow teachers to provide individualised attention, ensuring no child “slips through the cracks.” The personalised approach means lessons can be tailored to a child’s specific learning style, helping them feel understood and supported.
The Mead School in Tunbridge Wells operates with two forms per year group and an average class size of just 15 pupils. This allows their staff to create a supportive community where children feel secure enough to take risks and grow. The school’s 2023 inspection report by the Independent School Inspectorate (ISI) noted that “pupils’ excellent self-awareness and self-esteem are fostered because “leaders and staff teach them with much warmth and respect.”
Redefining Academic Success: Beyond the Exam Results
While academic results are a key metric, they are not the only measure of success. A truly excellent school prepares children not just for the next exam, but for a lifetime of learning. This is achieved through a curriculum that encourages critical thinking, curiosity and a growth mindset.
Our school has an ethos of “giving everything a try,” which encourages children to embrace all subjects and provide challenge for all.
Our academic success, including a high percentage of pupils passing the Kent 11+/ISEB test and securing places at selective grammar and independent schools, is a clear indicator of our strong curriculum and high standards. With a broad and imaginative curriculum, we encourage children to develop a growth mindset..
Prioritising Well-being: The Foundation of Success
A child cannot achieve their full academic potential without a strong foundation of well-being. A happy, secure and confident child is a better learner. Schools that prioritise well-being embed it into their culture and daily practices. At The Mead, we are recognised for our excellent pastoral care. The Independent School Inspectorate (ISI) noted that “pupils’ excellent self-awareness and self-esteem are fostered because they are treated with much warmth and respect by staff”.
This commitment to personal development and children’s happiness is evident in the school’s ethos. The “language of learning” encourages children to view challenges as opportunities to grow. We’ve woven wellbeing into the fabric of our school day through a variety of forward-thinking programs:
Fostering Connections:
- Playground Buddies at Every Break: Older children serve as “Playground Buddies” to ensure every child has someone to play with and talk to, creating a supportive network on the playground.
- Whole-School Breaks: By having breaks with mixed year groups, we’re building friendships and a sense of community across the entire school. This helps older children mentor younger ones and makes everyone feel like part of one big family.
- Cross-Year-Group Collaborations: Our collaborative projects between different year groups reinforce the idea that we are one big school family, encouraging peer support and mentorship.
- A House System for Inter-House Activities: Our house system is more than just a way to group children; it’s a family unit within the school. This system provides a sense of belonging and offers numerous opportunities for inter-house activities and meetings that build camaraderie and a supportive community.
Empowering Children’s Voice and Choice:
- School Council: We believe in giving our children a voice. The School Council provides a platform for children to share their ideas, influence school decisions, and take an active role in shaping their own environment.
- Library and Craft Time: We understand that not all children want to be active at breaktime. By offering quiet, creative options like library time, we cater to every child’s needs and interests, ensuring every one has a positive break.
- Year 5 Fish: Our Year 5 are currently responsible for caring for classroom fish. This provides a tangible way to learn empathy and nurturing skills.
Nurturing Emotional Intelligence:
- Play Therapist in a Dedicated Room: For those who need more focused support, we have a play therapist available in a dedicated, private room. This space offers a safe and confidential environment for children to process their feelings and experiences through play.
- Mitzi Therapy Dog: Our school therapy dog, Mitzi, is always available for children to talk to, offering a calm, non-judgmental presence for students who need a moment of comfort or a listening ear.
- Colour Monster Feeling Charts: We use “Colour Monster” charts and chats to help children identify and articulate their emotions. This simple tool provides a language for feelings and opens up conversations from a young age.
- Assemblies and Teachings: We host assemblies and provide teachings on a range of subjects, including mental health, to equip children with the knowledge and tools they need to understand their own emotions and support their peers.
A Foundation of Growth
A growth mindset underpins everything we do. It’s the belief that intelligence and abilities can be developed through effort and dedication, rather than being fixed traits. We help our children understand that their brains are like muscles that get stronger with exercise. When they encounter a difficult problem, instead of thinking “I can’t do this,” we teach them to reframe it as, “I can’t do this yet.” This single word opens up a world of possibilities, fostering a resilience and love of learning that extends beyond the classroom. Our curriculum and teaching methods are designed to provide challenging yet achievable tasks for the individual, allowing children to experience the satisfaction of overcoming obstacles and celebrating their progress.
