Nurture at Olton Primary School

At Olton Primary School, we believe that children learn best when they feel safe, supported and understood. Strong relationships are at the heart of our school, and we are proud to be working in partnership with Nurture UK to further develop our nurturing approach.

This term, we are working towards our assessment for the National Nurturing Schools Award (NNSA). This reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting children’s wellbeing, strengthening relationships and ensuring every child is ready to learn.

What is Nurture?

Nurture focuses on the importance of children’s social and emotional development and the environment around them. It recognises that who children spend time with, how they are supported, and how they feel in school all play a vital role in their learning and development.

A nurturing approach helps children build confidence, resilience and positive relationships, supporting them not only in school but throughout life. 

Our Approach at Olton

Nurture is part of everyday life at Olton. It can be seen in the way we welcome children each morning, the relationships in our classrooms, and the consistent support offered by all staff.

We work closely with children and families to understand individual needs and ensure that every child feels valued, included and supported. Where needed, additional support is provided by our pastoral team and external agencies

The Six Principles of Nurture (Nurture UK)

These principles underpin our whole-school approach and guide our practice:

1. Our learning is understood developmentally

2. Our classrooms offer a safe base

3. Nurture is important for the development of self-esteem

4. Language is a vital means of communication

5. We understand the importance of transition in our lives

6. All behaviour is communication

Our Child-Friendly Principles

We also teach the principles in a child-friendly way so that pupils can understand and talk about them in their own words:

• We all learn in different ways and at different times

• Our classroom is a safe place

• Caring for each other helps us feel good

• Talking and Listening helps us understand

• Our behaviour shows how we are feeling

• Changes are important and we prepare for them

Our Nurture Video

At Olton Primary School, nurture is part of everything we do. Our video gives a snapshot of daily life in school and shows how our nurturing approach helps children feel safe, supported and ready to learn.

Recently at Olton – Our Nurture Competition

Recently, we held a whole-school Nurture competition to celebrate and deepen our understanding of the Six Principles of Nurture.

Children were invited to respond creatively to what nurture means to them. We had some fantastic entries showing thoughtful ideas about kindness, safety, relationships and feeling understood. We were really impressed by the creativity and care shown across the school, and it was a wonderful way to bring our nurturing values to life.

Nurture Lead

Our Nurture provision is led by Miss Williams, who works closely with staff, children and families to support emotional wellbeing across the school.

📧 s12Nurture@olton.solihull.sch.uk