On Track Wisbech: The ‘extraordinary’ independent school re-engaging young people with learning

To cater for the varying needs of their learners, On Track use Thrive-Online – Thrive’s assessment, action-planning and progress monitoring tool – to identify areas of social and emotional development that require extra support. This systematic approach enables the team to identify gaps in learning and put targeted provision in place quickly.

The staff at On Track have seen first-hand that addressing pupils’ social and emotional needs has a knock-on effect on their resilience and resourcefulness as well as their appetite for learning. Thrive has helped to reinvigorate the school’s provision and enabled young people at risk of underachieving or exclusion to stay in school and re-engage with education.

Since implementing Thrive, On Track has trained four Thrive Licensed Practitioners. One Licensed Practitioner is also a Course Leader for Family Thrive, running sessions with parents and carers to help them better understand the Thrive Approach and the work they’re doing to support their children.

The award is the highest level of achievement in Thrive’s Ambassador Schools scheme, which shines a light on settings showcasing outstanding mental health and wellbeing support. Deputy Headteacher, Gemma Adams, is delighted with the award and said: “It is such a proud moment for us. Thrive has been part of the school’s journey from the start and its success is down to the commitment of our staff.”

“Thrive allows us to look at the behaviour of the child to gain a more in-depth understanding about what they may be experiencing. We have seen that a consistent use of the Thrive Approach has helped improve attitudes to learning, increased attendance, and improvements in learners’ emotional and social skills and relationships within peer groups.”

“The children are also delighted that their school has been recognised for its amazing work – they are so proud of their school.”

“A lot more schools should offer Thrive sessions. It helps with mental and physical health and also stress. It also helps with problems at home. We get to have an outstanding teacher deliver it to us. My favourite thing about Thrive is to learn and colour with all the different colours. You can have time to be yourself.” – Theo, Year 10.

“During my Thrive sessions, I have been focusing on the next stages of my education which for me, will mean going onto college to study sports. I have been applying for courses and learning the skills I will need to be fully independent. Thrive gives me a space where I can be myself, chat with others about my interests and get emotional and wellbeing support.” – Dylan, Year 11.

“I was asked ‘what does Thrive mean to me’? To me, it means a soft space where you can talk to adults about your emotions and all that kind of stuff, you can talk to teachers about it and students. I get loads of support in Thrive, it can also be fun. We sometimes play games and do activities and I have been able to practise my colouring. Since joining On Track, Wisbech, Thrive has helped me to better manage my anger. Thrive is really fun and really supportive.” - Tomi-Lee, Year 7.