Cowes Enterprise College pupils

Community and mental health at Cowes Enterprise College praised with Wellbeing Award

Cowes Enterprise College, part of Ormiston Academies Trust, has been again awarded the prestigious Optimus Education Wellbeing Award in recognition of its support for wellbeing.

The academy has been awarded the prestigious accolade for another three years, underscoring the academy’s ongoing commitment to fostering positive mental health and wellbeing within its school community. 

Recognises the exceptional efforts and dedication
Developed by the National Children’s Bureau (NCB) in partnership with Optimus Education, the Wellbeing Award for Schools has again recognised the exceptional efforts and dedication of Cowes Enterprise College in promoting mental health and wellbeing.

The academy first achieved this accolade in 2020 and has since continued to utilise the award framework to enhance its wellbeing and support practices through comprehensive self-evaluation and stakeholder engagement, as part of its ongoing commitment to creating a school environment where wellbeing is at the forefront, ensuring that both students and staff have the support and resources they need to thrive. 

Academy fosters a sense of community
As part of the rigorous assessment, the verifier for the Wellbeing Award noted how the academy “is welcoming and fosters a sense of community and relational practice,” and recognised its success in creating an environment where wellbeing can flourish, with a range of opportunities for wellbeing through the curriculum and various activities on offer.” As

As part of their time at Cowes Enterprise College, learners are encouraged to take on Student Leadership and Student Voice and shared their experiences as part of the assessment. One student at the academy said, “wellbeing is a huge priority,” at the academy, with another saying the “support at Cowes is unmatched.” 

The process also noted how wellbeing underpins the academy’s mission to “educate for life”, with values, staff and student charters, ethos, and curriculum all reflecting the academy’s commitment to fostering a culture of belonging, strong relationships, and aspiration for all.  

Kitley: This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff, students and the wider community
Rachel Kitley, Principal at Cowes Enterprise College said,

“We are incredibly proud to have again been awarded the Wellbeing Award, which reflects our unwavering commitment to the positive mental health and wellbeing of our entire school community.

“At Cowes Enterprise College, we believe that fostering resilience and promoting a positive mindset are essential to our students’ success. This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff, students, and wider community in making wellbeing a central focus of our academy. We will continue to prioritise the mental health and wellbeing of everyone at Cowes Enterprise College, ensuring a supportive and nurturing environment for all.” 


News shared by Kira on behalf of Cowes Enterprise College. Ed