School Values 

Our core values—Ready, Respectful and Safe—guide everything we do. They reflect our commitment not only to academic success but also to the personal growth and wellbeing of every child. At Waldo Williams, we believe that children thrive in a warm, welcoming environment where they feel valued, supported and inspired to achieve their full potential. 

Every pupil is recognised as a unique individual and a valued member of our community. Pupil voice is central to our practice, and we work in close partnership with parents and carers. Our strong links with the wider community are a key strength of our school, and we are committed to nurturing them further. 

What is The Nest? 

The Nest is a whole-school nurture provision available to all pupils. It is built upon the Six Nurture Principles: 

• Children’s learning is understood developmentally 

• The classroom offers a safe space 

• Nurture is vital for wellbeing 

• Language is a key means of communication 

• All behaviour is communication 

• Transitions are significant in children’s lives 

A nurturing approach is most effective when it is accessible to everyone. The Nest aims to: 

• Enhance the wellbeing of all pupils who access the provision 

• Improve attendance for pupils requiring support 

• Develop pupils’ social and emotional skills 

• Build confidence, self-esteem and decision-making through trusted relationships with staff 

Wellbeing 

Wellbeing encompasses emotional regulation, healthy lifestyle choices, positive relationships and resilience. These skills are essential for lifelong success, and The Nest helps pupils develop them at their own pace. 

School Attendance 

Regular attendance is strongly linked to academic achievement and social development. Missing school—whether through absence or lateness—can disrupt learning and affect wellbeing, particularly in the crucial early years when relationships and routines are being formed. 

Social and Emotional Development 

Children need opportunities to learn how to manage their emotions, build relationships and resolve conflict. The Nest provides a safe environment where pupils learn these skills with guidance and encouragement. 

Behaviour – Making Choices 

Regardless of age, pupils must learn that their actions are choices. The Nest supports pupils in understanding the impact of their behaviour and helps them develop strategies to make positive choices independently. 

Accessing The Nest 

The Nest is available to pupils across the school: 

• Younger pupils usually receive support within their classroom, surrounded by familiar adults. Occasionally though, for some pupils, using the actual Nest room may provide the quiet, calm space pupils require.  

• Older pupils who can express their feelings verbally may use The Nest room—a calm, quiet space where they can talk with trained staff and explore strategies to help them cope. 

• A ‘soft start’ is available for pupils who find mornings challenging, allowing them to begin their day in The Nest before transitioning to class. Parents may attend where appropriate. 

• Timetabled sessions may be offered during times of difficulty, such as bereavement, family separation or friendship issues. 

• Nest provision is also provided as a more targeted level of support, and this is tracked through Edukey as a ‘Targeted Intervention Plan.’ 

Referral Process 

Referrals can be made by staff, parents or pupils themselves. While The Nest plays a key role in improving attendance, it is also available to pupils with good attendance who need additional support. 

Identifying Pupils for Support 

Pupils are identified using a range of strategies, including: 

• Vulnerability tracker 

• Staff observations 

• Attendance and punctuality data 

• Behaviour monitoring (ABCs) 

• Pupil voice 

• Parental concerns 

• Safeguarding alerts 

• Academic progress affected by emotional barriers 

The Nest is not an alternative to mainstream education. Its goal is always to reintegrate and empower pupils to participate fully in class. 

The Nest Environment 

The Nest provides a welcoming, homely space with: 

• Kitchen and dining areas 

• Play and quiet zones 

• Comfortable seating 

• Work areas 

• Outdoor access 

Progress and Record Keeping 

All pupils accessing The Nest have an individual record maintained by the Nest Leader, Mrs Whitby. 

• Following initial sessions, those pupils highlighted as needing targeted support will receive SMART targets set by Mrs Whitby – these are reviewed regularly.  

• When targets are met, a decision is made whether to continue support or conclude access. Pupils who exit the provision are closely monitored and may return at any time. 

Pupils often build strong, trusting relationships with Mrs Whitby (and Mrs Hicks who is also based in the Nest) and may continue visiting The Nest informally during breaktimes—a testament to its success as a safe and supportive space.