At The Oaks, we are incredibly proud to have achieved The National College Mental Health Certified School Accreditation for 2025–2026. Awarded on 28th November 2025, this recognition reflects our unwavering commitment to creating a school environment where mental health and wellbeing are prioritised for every pupil, every member of staff, and every family we serve.

To obtain this accreditation, our whole school community engaged in a rigorous and comprehensive programme of professional development led by The National College. This included training aligned with the latest DfE guidance and best practice, ensuring that all staff, from classroom teachers to senior leaders, are equipped with the knowledge and confidence to support mental health effectively. The accreditation celebrates our commitment to embedding a culture in which mental health is openly discussed, understood, and actively supported, placing wellbeing at the heart of our daily decision-making.

Our policies for both pupils and staff demonstrate this commitment in practice. For pupils, our Mental Health and Wellbeing Policy outlines a whole-school approach that includes early identification, specialist intervention, safe spaces, pastoral support, and strong partnerships with parents and external professionals. We aim to create an inclusive environment where all pupils feel heard, valued, and supported, and where mental health education is woven through PSHE and daily school life.

For staff, our Mental Health and Wellbeing Policy ensures that The Oaks is a workplace where colleagues feel safe, respected, supported, and empowered. Through initiatives such as wellbeing days, drop-in support, structured staff voice, and a culture of openness, we actively protect and promote staff mental health. Our accreditation reinforces these principles, demonstrating that wellbeing is not an add-on, it is one of the foundations of our school.

Achieving this national recognition means a great deal to us. It acknowledges the hard work, compassion and dedication shown by our staff, as well as the trust and partnership of our families. Most importantly, it reflects our belief that when mental health is nurtured, children and adults alike are able to thrive, learn, and flourish.

We are extremely proud of this achievement and remain committed to continually improving our practice so that The Oaks remains a place where wellbeing truly comes first, for everyone.