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PROMOTING POSITIVE ATTITUDES

Promoting Positive Attitudes to Physical and Mental Health 

At The Aylesbury Vale Academy, we are deeply committed to supporting the physical and emotional wellbeing of all our students. Through a wide range of initiatives, pupil leadership opportunities, and curriculum integration, we ensure that every young person feels valued, supported, and empowered to thrive. 

Raising Awareness and Promoting Wellbeing 

Throughout the year, we run a variety of campaigns and events designed to raise awareness of physical and mental health issues. These include: 

  • Anti-Bullying Week with inspiring guest speakers such as Josh, sharing personal stories and strategies to support kindness and respect. 
  • Healthy Eating Campaigns, where our Student Parliament works closely with the catering team to promote nutritious choices. 
  • Talk4Teens sessions, encouraging open and honest conversations around emotional wellbeing. 
  • Personal Development talks, including our well-received ‘It’s OK to not be OK’ assemblies. 
  • Action4Youth partnership projects that develop confidence, resilience, and leadership. 

Students take a leading role in designing and delivering these initiatives through our Student Parliament, Prefect Team, Anti-Bullying Ambassadors, PE Ambassadors, and Eco Council. Their involvement ensures that student voice remains central to every campaign, leading to real and lasting impact — including a reduction in stigma, strengthened safeguarding culture, and increased awareness of how to access support. 

Supporting Emotional Wellbeing and Mental Health 

Wellbeing at AVA is supported through a strong network of safeguarding and pastoral care, underpinned by our belief in “Maslow before Blooms” — ensuring that emotional needs are met before academic learning can take place. 
Our support includes: 

  • Dedicated safeguarding and pastoral teams 
  • Play therapy and social stories for emotional literacy 
  • Five emotionally available adults accessible to all students 
  • School counsellor and partnerships with external agencies 

These systems have led to measurable improvements, including a reduction in suspensions and improved academic outcomes. Students are also taught self-regulation through nurture sessions, Personal Development lessons, and targeted emotional support programmes. 

Wellbeing in the Curriculum 

Our Personal Development curriculum follows the PSHE Association guidelines, embedding wellbeing and resilience across all year groups. Themes include: 

  • Health and wellbeing 
  • Relationships and respect 
  • Living in the wider world 
  • Careers and aspirations 
  • RSE (Relationships and Sex Education) 

Creative arts and digital media are also used to promote wellbeing — from drama productions like A Monster Calls to local collaborations such as the TVPP Project, Waddesdon Project, and Media Mindfulness sessions. 

We ensure equality, diversity, and belonging through initiatives like HIVE, inclusive clubs, and a culture of respect supported by emotionally available adults. 

Promoting Physical Health and Healthy Lifestyles 

Physical health is supported through both curriculum and community engagement. Our initiatives include: 

  • Healthy Schools Programme 
  • PE Ambassadors 
  • Active Citizens Community Project 
  • Collaboration with the Parish Council to make walking and cycling to school safer 
  • Regular updates and resources shared via the Parent Bulletin 

Access to Help and Support 

Students and families can access support through multiple channels, including Tutor First Intervention, the Pastoral Team, our School Website, and Safeguarding contacts. 
We value open communication, encouraging students and parents to share concerns via dedicated email addresses and regular feedback forums. 
Student and parent voice directly inform school improvements — for example, catering changes were made following pupil feedback, and the Student Parliament now leads initiatives around sustainability and food waste. 

Working with Parents and Families 

We actively engage parents through workshops, newsletters, and the Parent Bulletin, helping families to understand and support their children’s wellbeing. 
We also offer practical support through our Family Support Team, food bank partnerships and signposting to external agencies. 

Pupil Leadership and Voice 

Our students are at the heart of every wellbeing initiative. Through the Student Parliament, each group leads on a theme or project, ensuring every pupil — not just the most confident — has a voice. 
This inclusive approach has led to tangible community projects, including work with the Parish Council to improve local safety and accessibility. 

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