The Bothy – Our Nurture Class

The nurturing relationships between staff and pupils are built on the six key principles of nurture:

1. Children’s learning is understood developmentally.

2. The classroom offers a safe base.

3. Nurture is important for the development of self-esteem.

4. Language is understood as a vital means of communication.

5. All behaviour is communication.

6. Transitions are significant in the lives of children.

As a whole school we focus on these and integrate them into everything we do which allows us to provide positive role models for all of our pupils.

Our Nurture Class

The Bothy is carefully arranged to have the best of both classroom and home environments. It is designed to be warm and welcoming in order to provide children with a safe place based on the nurture principles. We have areas for working, but on top of this have a snack area, a kitchen area to help prepare snack, bake and tidy up, we have our sofas to enable us to communicate daily and our quiet area where children can go and reflect. The secure environment allows pupils to develop supportive relationships, learn about coping strategies and build their resilience.

What are Nurture Groups?

Nurture groups are small classes where the focus is on the emotional health and wellbeing and self-esteem of our learners. Some pupils benefit from extra nurture support by spending time in The Bothy. This could be due to challenges they face in their life which are becoming a barrier to their learning. We follow a daily routine, which incorporates learning, with social skills, playing games and learning vital skills such as teamwork and communication. As they develop their confidence, they become more responsive to others, increase their self-respect and take pride in working hard and achieving.

Further information on nurture groups can be found by clicking on the following link: Nurture UK

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