Children and young people today are growing up in a world that looks very different from the one many of us experienced. Alongside the excitement and opportunity of modern life come increasing pressures: heightened academic expectations, busy schedules, constant connectivity, and the pervasive influence of screens and social media. Research continues to highlight a clear correlation between increased screen use and rising levels of anxiety among children and young people, and this is something we take seriously as a school community.
At Walhampton, pastoral care is not an add-on or an afterthought; it is a guiding principle. We firmly believe that a child who is not happy cannot truly thrive. Emotional wellbeing and academic success are not separate aims - they go hand in hand. When children feel safe, understood and supported, they are far more likely to engage with learning, take healthy risks and grow into confident, resilient individuals. That is our ultimate goal.
Over the past academic year, we have continued to develop and strengthen our wellbeing provision, placing children firmly at the heart of everything we do. One of the highlights of this work was our whole-school Pastoral Day, Wired4Wellness. This dedicated day focused on balance: balancing screen time with play, independence, creativity and genuine connection. Inspired by Jonathan Haidt’s The Anxious Generation, which explores the impact of modern technology on childhood and adolescent mental health, the day reflected conversations taking place nationally among educators and parents alike.
The aim of Wired4Wellness was to support pupils and families in developing a healthier relationship with technology, while restoring the vital role of play in childhood. We wanted to create space for reflection, open discussion and, most importantly, meaningful action.
From the whole-school Morning Mile, which brought together pupils aged 2 to 13 to share fresh air, movement and a sense of togetherness across our beautiful 100-acre site, to parents gathering for an inspiring talk by parenting coach Lorraine Lee that underscored the importance of partnership between home and school, the day unfolded as a true promotion of wellbeing. Throughout the day, pupils immersed themselves in traditional games, imaginative play and creative challenges, rediscovering the simple joy of screen-free connection.
At Walhampton, we strongly believe that children need less screen and more green - muddy boots, curious minds and the freedom to think wild. This belief sits at the heart of our approach to pastoral care. It is bold, it challenges convention, and it champions each child for who they are. Our children are seen. They are heard. They are understood, and they know it. We believe that is the essence of excellent pastoral care.
As we continue to strive for academic excellence, we remain deeply committed to giving emotional wellbeing equal priority. Perhaps thinking a little wild - prioritising play, connection, nature and community - is the way forward. And perhaps, in doing so, we give our children exactly what they need to flourish in an increasingly complex world.
In support of Children’s Mental Health Week and Safer Internet Day we are excited to build on the success of Wired4Wellness, continuing these important conversations. Through age-appropriate digital education, ongoing pastoral initiatives and close partnership with parents, we will support our children in navigating the online world with confidence, balance and care. By reinforcing healthy boundaries around technology while continuing to champion play, connection and time outdoors, we remain committed to nurturing happy, resilient children who are equipped to thrive - both online and offline.
We cannot change the world that our children are growing up in, but we can equip them to meet it grounded, curious and secure in who they are - and that is the very heart of excellent pastoral care.
Watch our Wired4Wellness Pastoral Day video below.