What is Nurture at Tenterden Primary Federation?

At Tenterden Primary Federation we develop the whole child by ensuring that we understand the importance of wellbeing for our pupils and support their needs to ensure they achieve their potential, be happy and succeed academically and in life.

We believe effective teaching and learning cannot take place without effective relationships and positive behaviour. Children need a connection and a calm and purposeful atmosphere in order to learn and experience success. We believe we should encourage positive attitudes to each other both in the classroom and in the school environment so that all children feel safe and secure.

As a school, we aim to focus on emotional needs and development in a whole school environment. We can help to develop the nurture of children by focusing on emotional growth that can help them to form positive relationships and firm boundaries.

Our children and families are at the centre of everything we do. Mental health, social and emotional development and wellbeing is at the core of our school and by working together with our families and our community partners we will continue to equip our children with the life-skills to achieve.

Research clearly demonstrates that a nurturing approach supports the development of positive relationships which are central to both learning and wellbeing. Nurture focuses on the attention and care provided to a child that supports their developing needs and emotional resilience. In schools, the practice of nurture aims to provide this essential experience through developing positive relationships, clear boundaries and regular communication. 

A key aspect of a nurturing approach is an understanding of attachment theory and how early experiences can have a significant impact on development. It recognises that all school staff have a role to play in establishing the positive relationships that are required to promote healthy social and emotional development and that these relationships should be reliable, predictable and consistent where possible. A nurturing approach has a key focus on the school environment and emphasises the balance between care and challenge which incorporates warmth and connection alongside structure, high expectations and a focus on achievement and attainment. It is based on the understanding of 6 Nurturing Principles.