At Wyborne School, we know that we are very fortunate to have space to create our own Inclusion and Pastoral Hub within our school grounds. The history of the building is that it was once our premises managers home. But things have moved on, and we have now completely redeveloped the layout and the use of this area.

Let me build you a picture of all the wonderful things that happen here!

The Hub is in our playground so it's easy for children and staff to access whenever they may require support or a safe place. We set up the house for lunchtime clubs which have become a refuge for many pupils. Pupils use this time and opportunity to take part in one of the many different activities we offer: Lego club, drawing, art, board games, hot chocolate club or just a place to relax. We know not all pupils enjoy their lunchtime being outside and often feel lonely or overwhelmed by the noisy and busy environment in the outside area.

We offer a buddie friendship club which is a great way for pupils to build new relationships. This is supported by our Year 6 ambassadors and is a great way to help pupils that lack self confidence and have low self esteem. During our playtime and lunchtimes, we have a rota of Relationships Ambassadors from Year 6 who support younger children with any concerns or worries they may have. Staff and children can refer for support, if they feel someone is finding these times challenging. We know that our younger children now look to our older children as role models.

The Hub garden has a lovely outdoor area that offers children a space where they can get their hands muddy and take part in outdoor activities: growing seeds, making homes for all kinds of insects, or just having some time for reflection or downtime .

The Hub also has a relaxing sensory room which offers a very calm space for our SEND children. Children can express their feelings within a peaceful environment which has gentle lighting, soft music, play mats and lots of other great sensory tools, to support our children’s diverse needs and requirements.

Our brilliant Pastoral Care Team works from within the Hub. The team offers children support with wellbeing, self esteem, home life, friendships, bereavement or whatever life may have thrown at them and their families. The professionals that are on hand with their expertise include a Learning Mentor, Relationship/Behaviour Support and our School Counsellors and a school dog!

As a school, Wyborne feels that our Inclusion and Pastoral Hub is needed to support the whole of the child. Not everything in life is about academic needs: we know that children need us to also understand and take care of their emotional and mental health and wellbeing. This support helps them develop skills they will need and use in all areas of their lives .

I feel very proud to be a part of the Pastoral Care at Wyborne. As a professional, it's wonderful to be part of a school community which takes such good care of everyone. Yes, it's been hard work, but we're all very happy with the outcome.

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