We believe a happy, secure child is an energised and confident child. We invest in nurturing happy and healthy minds just as equally as we commit to developing children’s academic skills and intellectual capabilities.

At Blackheath Prep, every child enjoys a wealth of opportunities to feel valued, supported and free to be themselves during their time with us. Each individual is encouraged to be caring, happy and resilient and to demonstrate empathy, kindness, respect and sensitivity throughout all aspects of their school life. Good communication is fundamental too, and our open dialogue with pupils and parents promotes a positive culture of ‘talking’ within the school.

Like all children, pupils at Blackheath Prep face challenges and it is unrealistic to expect that they will be permanently protected from the ups and downs of life. We help our children develop the tools to cope with dilemmas and setbacks. We strengthen their resilience by encouraging them to change their approach to perceived obstacles and use their creative problem-solving skills to find positive solutions.

Through the use of weekly assemblies, Smart School Council meetings, PSHE lessons and circle time activities, and through our bespoke PSHE curriculum, our children explore a range of skills that will help them successfully navigate difficult situations.

We also run termly pastoral mentoring sessions which enable Prep children to meet with their form teacher on a one-to-one basis, to reflect on their personal development and to set targets for the forthcoming term.

During each child’s journey with us at Blackheath Prep, we nurture their:

  • competence – knowing how to handle specific situations effectively
  • confidence – believing in their own abilities
  • connection – developing a sense of community that helps them feel safe and supported
  • character – being able to use values and morals to care for the school community
  • contribution – getting involved with the community and offering valuable contributions
  • coping strategies – identifying ways of managing stressful situations
  • control – understanding that each positive action creates a positive reaction.