Being part of a safe, positive community is vital for our mental health and is a place where we can all thrive. Strong connections provide us with a sense of belonging, safety, and support, and give us a sense of purpose.

In Monday's assembly, Kate in L6th Form gave a talk on why this week is important to her, and why it should be important to all of us: "We can be so busy online liking others that we forget to like ourselves, to pay attention to our own needs." Shelf-help has been on display at Oratory Library, with featured books being Marcus Rashford's 'You are a Champion' and 'You are Awesome' by Matthew Syad - all promoting self-confidence and empowering our students to dare to be different. On Thursday, the whole school enjoyed a green themed lunch of Thai green curry with green sides, green salads and a selection of green desserts from kiwi pots and lime posset through to key lime pie, mint chocolate chip cake and lime jelly - delicious!

Kerry Hulbert, School Counsellor, says "We are all inherently social creatures, and mental health and wellbeing thrive when we feel supported, valued, seen and understood by those around us. This is especially true for children and young people where inclusive community support can bring a sense of togetherness, meaning and purpose; where children feel they belong and have a well-deserved place in the world.

Community support and connection builds positive self-confidence and self–esteem, and by feeling we belong and are a part of something, we feel less alone and less anxious. This is especially important for those who are struggling, and no one should face adversity alone.

Community and connection are fundamental to our mental health and wellbeing, and we should strive to raise awareness and recognise the importance of taking the time to reach out and check in with those around us and remind ourselves of the power of connection because we are so much stronger when we come together."

At The Oratory, we appreciate that groundedness, wholeness and kindness are created by the right ethos and environment, which is why we remain, quite deliberately, small enough that we can know and offer support to every one of our pupils. 

Cor ad Cor Loquitur.