What Are the Nurture Principles?

The Nurture Principles are a set of six evidence-informed guidelines that support pupils’ social, emotional and mental health, enabling them to engage successfully with learning. These principles underpin our whole-school approach to wellbeing and inclusion.

At St Augustine's, we embrace these principles as part of our commitment to ensuring every child feels valued, supported and ready to learn.

The six Nurture Principles are:

Children’s learning is understood developmentally

We recognise at St Augustine's that children learn and develop at different rates. We adapt our teaching and support to meet each child’s individual needs. We celebrate effort, resilience and progress for all learners at St Augustine's.

The classroom offers a safe base

At St Augustine's, we provide a welcoming, predictable and secure environment where children feel valued and confident to take risks in their learning. Classrooms are calm and structured and clear routines and expectations help children feel secure and supported. Staff at St Augustine's build warm, respectful and trusting relationships with pupils, and we prioritise ensuring every child feels known and understood as an individual.

The importance of nurture for the development of wellbeing

Positive relationships are at the heart of St Augustine's School. We know that children learn best when they feel cared for, understood and supported. We explicitly teach emotional literacy and self-regulation skills.

Language is a vital means of communication

We encourage pupils at St Augustine's to express their thoughts, feelings and needs using language, helping them build strong communication skills.

All behaviour is communication

At St Augustine's, we understand that behaviour reflects underlying needs or emotions and, therefore, take a relational and restorative approach. Staff look beyond behaviour to understand underlying needs and provide appropriate support; responding with curiosity and empathy, supporting children to regulate and make positive choices.

The importance of transition in children’s lives

We support pupils at St Augustine's through changes—whether daily routines or major life events—ensuring smooth and positive transitions. Additional support is provided where needed to ensure pupils feel confident and prepared.

The National Nurturing Schools Award

St Augustine's School is proud to be working towards the National Nurturing Schools Award (NNSA). This recognition, awarded by Nurture UK, celebrates schools that have successfully embedded a nurturing culture throughout their community.

As part of this journey, at St Augustine's we are:

• Developing a whole-school approach to nurture
• Reflecting on our practice to ensure it meets the needs of all learners
• Engaging staff in ongoing professional development
• Strengthening partnerships with families and the wider community
• Embedding the six Nurture Principles across all areas of school life

Achieving the National Nurturing Schools Award will demonstrate our commitment to ensuring that every child at St Augustine's receives the support they need to thrive both academically and emotionally.