Validator report
06 November 2025
PWA-Hinchingbrooke School-PE29 3BN-06/Nov/2025
Areas for further development
The school is mindful that they need to maintain the work that they have started, so this will form the basis for wellbeing work in the future. Whatever happens, the team is keen to continue to advocate for all pupils in school.
Award term ref
Confirm the recommendation
1
Overall comments
An exemplary portfolio of evidence from a school that takes pupil wellbeing seriously. The comparable data that has been provided offers real insight into the pupil experience at the school. The school identified areas to improve and has worked methodically and consistently to ensure that they have been fulfilled. A succinct range of evidence was shown, with appropriate and relevant commentary, that demonstrated what the school had put in place over time. The impact of the measures taken is demonstrated clearly and concisely. Pupil wellbeing has improved across the whole school community because of the simple, effective measures that have been put in place by the dedicated team. Well done!
School ref
Validator benchmark comments
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
The school has implemented numerous meaningful opportunities in which the whole-school community can participate and the reports reflect that pupils find value in these opportunities, as well as that their awareness has been raised and that they were proud to be part of meaningful change in the school. One student said that "One of the most rewarding aspects has been hearing directly from students about how our initiatives have positively impacted their school experience." The school's Kindness Club was set up as a result of student feedback last year where they said they wanted to more acts of kindness in the community, both in school and beyond - and the school made this happen.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
This has been a notable area of change for the school over the past year, with pupils taking on more responsibility for wellbeing across the school - with positive results, particularly for improved attendance and reduced suspensions. There has been a significant increase in the number of pupils who report that they know where and how to access help if they need it.
Comments on impact identified during validation
The school's PSHCE programme has enabled pupils to improve their self-reflection skills and this has had a positive effect on their ability to learn. Pupils report that they feel safer online and that their PSHCE programme has helped them to do this. There have been numerous opportunities for pupils to learn about their wellbeing in wider areas of the curriculum.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
There have been numerous changes that have taken place in the whole school community as a result of pupils learning about physical health and wellbeing. The school dining experience has improved, and pupils are now choosing healthier options. The introduction of Wellbeing Week meant more positive responses were logged in the student survey, particularly around the link between mental and physical health. Engagement in clubs and activities has increased year on year.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
There has been an increase in the number of pupils self-referring to support offered in school, and this suggests a greater awareness of the support available in school - and that the support is helpful. Parents/carers note that the pastoral support provided in school is excellent. The school has increased significantly the counselling provision available to pupils as a result of feedback received.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
Staff confidence in being able to support pupils has increased over time, and they engage with the advice that was shared during mental health awareness week. The provision in The Lantern has meant that staff and pupils alike know where and how to access support, and this enables staff to feel more empowered to help pupils.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
The parent survey has shown positive changes over time, with more parents reporting that their child is happy at school, year on year. The school website data shows that more parents are accessing the support on offer. Referrals to external support services has reduced over time.
Comments on impact identified during validation
This has been a particular strength of the school's work. Feedback from the whole school community shows how much this work is already have an effect, and how it will continue to do so over time. Pupil feedback is resoundingly positive, and this shows how the efforts put in have made a positive difference.
Validator recommendation
I recommend that the school is accredited for this award
Validation confirm date
06/Nov/2025
Product attribute ref
Gold