Millfield Prep School has been crowned Independent Prep School of the Year at the annual Independent School of the Year awards.

The school was awarded the prestigious title for its recognition of pupil's mental health and wellbeing in the wake of the pandemic, launching the innovative Wellbeing Curriculum in September 2021. The awards are in association with Independent School Parent magazine and were held in Knightsbridge, London, on Tuesday, October 11.

The Wellbeing Curriculum, which was implemented by former Headmistress Shirley Shayler and Deputy Head (Pastoral) Tracey Hazell, proactively teaches pupils to identify poor wellbeing and to empower them with the skills to improve it.

Students are timetabled a 40-minute Wellbeing class, in addition to regular PSHEE and PE lessons, to learn and explore through a series of nine activities including meditation, yoga, mindful walk and talk and soul food. The concepts explored link seamlessly to the school's values Be Kind, Be You, Be Curious, Be Challengers and Be Brilliant.

Head of Millfield Prep, Dan Thornburn, said, "I am delighted to accept this award on behalf of everyone at Millfield Prep School. We are passionate about pupils' wellbeing and preparing them for life beyond Millfield, the wellbeing curriculum does just that. Members of our community have seen a visible difference in the pupils around campus, discussing wellbeing and demonstrating practical techniques to help themselves and to be more aware of each other. We are looking forward to seeing this progress further in the future.

"The dedication of staff at Millfield Prep is second to none and every day I am amazed at what our staff, pupils and parents achieve together. I have never known a school quite like it."