Why Bridgewater School’s nurturing approach has never been more important

Recent events have changed the lives of everyone and, no matter how old we are, even small changes to our routine can make us feel anxious. It is no surprise then, that our youngest children, who are preparing for the steps ahead and embarking on a journey of learning that will last for years, may feel utterly overwhelmed.

Patrice Pritchard, Head of Early Years at Bridgewater School in Worsley says, “Research suggests that transitions are central to young children’s development and emotional wellbeing and the way in which they are handled could have a significant impact on the child’s capacity to cope with change in the future. This is why the principles of a well-planned transition are embedded in Bridgewater’s Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and continue throughout Key Stages 1 and 2.”

She continues, “If a school gets early transition right, then they will reap the benefits for years to come with children deeply engaged in their learning. Pupils at Bridgewater School have the same positive transition in Years 6 to 7 when they continue their journey into Senior School, with the distinct areas of our school blending seamlessly into our very special Bridgewater family.”

At Bridgewater School, whose family ethos is built into its foundations, they recognise the importance of a successful transition from home to school and this understanding is reflected in their nurturing and supportive approach.

During recent periods of distance learning, in addition to a full virtual timetable with class teachers, pupils have benefited from attending virtual assemblies where individuals’ achievements, both in and beyond the ‘classroom’, have continued to be celebrated, have seen their ideas and personal journeys shared with the wider school community and been provided with inspiration and guidance to help their mental wellbeing. The school’s established ‘open door’ policy, which encourages openness and transparency, has proved vital throughout this time, ensuring a continuing partnership between school and home.

This mutually rewarding partnership is one which has reaped spectacularly pleasing rewards for pupils and parents over successive generations and all involved share a real sense of optimism about the future, whatever it may hold.

To find out more, visit www.bridgewater-school.co.uk. Or call 0161 794 1463 to arrange your personal tour.