Assistant Headteacher of Hillcroft Primary overwhelmed to learn of award

15th June 2021

News Thrive Ambassador Schools

Share this post:

 
Assistant Headteacher of Hillcroft Primary overwhelmed to learn of award

Surrey primary school wins awards for its focus on pupils' mental wellbeing

A school in Caterham, Surrey, has been named as a thrive ambassador school with two areas of expertise for the role it plays in supporting the wellbeing of its pupils in order to prevent mental health issues.

Hillcroft Primary School, in Chaldon Road, has been named as an ambassador school with excellence in the environment and excellence in reparative after going through a rigorous assessment process by thrive, which trains teachers and other education professionals to support the emotional and social development of children.

Diane Curtis, Thrive Relationship Manager for the South East, said: "Hillcroft Primary School is a fantastic example of a school that has placed mental wellbeing at the heart of everything it does."

The environment award recognises extraordinary schools which are making a positive impact on their pupils and on the wider community by having a focus on emotional wellbeing and creating an environment in which children's wellbeing thrives.

The reparative award recognises schools that have excelled in helping children who have gaps in their social and emotional development and are successfully meeting their needs.

Donna Hardcastle, assistant headteacher, said: "It was overwhelming to hear that we had been named as an ambassador school in two areas. We are really proud of our achievements and it's so lovely to be recognised for what we've done as a school.

"Every child in this school knows that there is someone here who will listen to them - and we can see what a difference this approach makes to them. We know that thrive has made a huge difference to our pupils' general wellbeing and has also improved behaviour."

Over to you

Are you leading the way in developing happy, emotionally-resilient children or young people? Are you feeling the impact of embedding the Thrive Approach throughout your setting? You too may be eligible for Thrive Ambassador School status. Click here to find out how to apply.

Pass it on

Small actions can lead to a big ripple effect. If you enjoyed this post or found it helpful, please consider supporting us in our mission to help every child and young person feel safe, supported and ready to learn by sharing it using the social media buttons below.

Want to join a like-minded community of senior leaders and classroom staff benefitting from insights and strategies to improve attendance, behaviour and attainment? Add your email address below. (It’s easy to unsubscribe).

 

Sector updates delivered straight to your inbox

Subscribe to the Thrive newsletter and receive our latest sector advice direct to your inbox

Subscribe today

 

Related content

What’s changed in the DfE Enrichment Framework? An enrichment framework guide for schools

21st July 2026 | Blogs

What’s changed in the DfE Enrichment Framework? An enrichment framework guide for schools

Explore the new DfE Enrichment Framework, including key changes to participation, impact and inclusion, and how schools can strengthen their existing enrichment offer.

Read full article →

Free Inclusion Strategy Planning Tool for Mainstream Schools in England

17th July 2026 | Blogs

Free Inclusion Strategy Planning Tool for Mainstream Schools in England

Download a free Inclusion Strategy Planning Tool for mainstream schools in England. Support your DfE Inclusion Strategy template and IMF planning.

Read full article →

What are Inclusion Bases in schools? DfE guidance explained

16th July 2026 | Blogs

What are Inclusion Bases in schools? DfE guidance explained

Understand what Inclusion Bases are, who they support, how they link to DfE guidance and what schools should consider when developing or reviewing targeted provision.

Read full article →

CONTACT US