Healthy Habits Week

This week, our school community marked Healthy Habits Week, a focused programme of activities designed to promote physical wellbeing, digital responsibility, positive mental health and good nutrition. The week began with Internet Safety Day and continued with a range of thoughtful and engaging opportunities for pupils across both Prep and Senior House.

Physical Wellbeing
We opened the week by exploring the importance of physical activity and the powerful connection between movement, energy levels and learning. In assemblies, pupils considered why our bodies benefit from regular movement and how small daily habits — such as walking, stretching and active play — contribute to long-term health and wellbeing.
Prep pupils took part in the Daily Mile, alongside a variety of circuit activities including skipping and hula hoops. In Senior House, Mrs O’Brien led an energising “Get Up and Move” session in the Sports Hall, reinforcing the link between physical activity, focus and emotional wellbeing.

Digital Responsibility and Internet Safety
As part of Internet Safety Day, pupils reflected on developing healthy and balanced relationships with technology.
Prep pupils attended an assembly entitled “Being the Boss of Your Screen”, where they explored healthy and unhealthy screen use through discussion and interactive activities. They considered how to recognise when it is time to switch off and were encouraged to take ownership of their digital habits. In the afternoon, screen-free activity zones were established, offering creative alternatives such as origami, board games, puzzles and writing activities.
In Senior House, students focused on connecting with others, reducing screen time, being active and becoming more aware of their emotional responses to digital engagement. PSHCEE lessons and form time discussions were dedicated to online safety and responsible technology use. Year 7 pupils further extended this learning through a structured debate, examining topics including age restrictions on social media, limits on technology use, and the social impact of online gaming. Their contributions demonstrated maturity, critical thinking and thoughtful consideration of differing perspectives.

Mental Wellbeing and Mindfulness
Midweek, attention turned to mental habits and the development of a positive mindset. During form time, pupils engaged with the theme “Mindset Matters”, exploring strategies to face challenges constructively and reframe negative thinking. Discussions encouraged pupils to consider how small shifts in perspective can have a meaningful impact on resilience and emotional wellbeing.
We were delighted to welcome Ms Sage, who led yoga and mindfulness sessions across the Prep school. Pre-Prep pupils began their day with a calming session in Oakdene Hall, while Years 3–6 participated in the Sports Hall. Through gentle yoga practice and mindfulness techniques, pupils were encouraged to cultivate self-awareness, kindness and calm focus. We extend our sincere thanks to Ms Sage for delivering such thoughtful and engaging sessions.

Nutritional Awareness
On Thursday, the focus shifted to nutritional habits and the importance of fuelling the body effectively for learning and play. Mrs Bourke delivered a parent talk on healthy habits, while pupils participated in age-appropriate sessions centred on nutrition.
Younger pupils explored a variety of vegetables, identifying those they enjoy, those they are less familiar with, and creating colourful “rainbow” platters. Older pupils attended a session led by Holroyd Howe, which highlighted balanced choices and the role of nutrition in supporting growth, concentration and sustained energy.

Reflection and Celebration
Healthy Habits Week concluded with a celebration assembly in which pupils shared their Healthy Habit Promises and reflected on the key messages of the week. Many created personal habit timetables to support the development of sustainable routines. The week ended on a joyful note with a whole-Prep karaoke session, celebrating community spirit and shared achievement.

Healthy Habits Week has provided a valuable opportunity for pupils to reflect on how they care for their physical health, emotional wellbeing and digital lives. By encouraging small, consistent positive habits, we continue to support our pupils in developing into balanced, confident and resilient young people.
Parents are also encouraged to explore the resources available through Tooled Up, which offers a wide range of guidance and support across many aspects of children’s development and wellbeing.