The same applies to our boys here at school. If we are able to create an environment where boys and parents are able to speak openly about the things that are troubling them, we are able to address issues in a timely manner, and ensure that the little things do not become big, insurmountable problems.

Drew Jones, author of the Open Culture Handbook: Five Questions to Drive Engagement and Innovation, posits managing culture as the key to creating an open environment that is adaptable and able to deal with challenges effectively. He suggests the following steps to creating a sense of place and community where people can flourish.

Firstly, he encourages creating a space where people can be transparent in quite a radical way – where concerns can be raised in a real manner. This is crucial to dealing with issues quickly so that they do not grow too big. He also recommends that the environment be ‘psychologically safe’; that there is no fear that a concern will be treated in a dismissive manner, and that it will be given time and attention, no matter how big or small. Another key theme is that one needs to create a space where people are recognised for their accomplishments. People thrive on praise and affirmation, and I’ve seen so many instances where boys visibly grow when they are recognised for even the smallest thing.

With this in mind, our invitation is there to engage with us as a school early on if there is ever a concern, so that it may be dealt with quickly and with care. Staff are very ready to listen and to make sure that our boys are given the opportunity to grow and thrive here at school.

Craig Cuyler
Designated Safeguarding Lead/Director of Wellbeing/Head of PSHEe