How Does Urban College Support Student Wellbeing Alongside Learning?
Urban College takes a holistic approach to education, recognising that wellbeing and learning are deeply connected. Rather than treating wellbeing as a separate service, the college integrates support structures into the daily learning experience to help students build confidence, resilience, and a positive relationship with education.
A relationship-based approach
Strong, respectful relationships between students and staff are central to wellbeing at Urban College. Smaller class sizes allow staff to know each student as an individual, understand their circumstances, and respond early when additional support may be needed. This relationship-based model helps students feel valued, heard, and safe within the learning environment.
Access to wellbeing and counselling support
Students have access to wellbeing support that may include counselling, regular check-ins with trusted staff, and referrals to external services where appropriate. These supports assist students to manage challenges such as anxiety, emotional regulation, social difficulties, or personal stressors that may otherwise impact their ability to engage in learning.
A calm and supportive learning environment
Urban College intentionally fosters a learning environment that is calm, respectful, and inclusive. Clear expectations, consistent routines, and supportive behaviour frameworks help reduce stress and uncertainty. This stability allows students to focus on learning without fear of judgement or repeated failure.
The role of Bear, Urban College’s therapy dog
A unique and much-valued part of Urban College’s wellbeing support is Bear, the college’s therapy dog. Bear provides a calming and reassuring presence within the school environment, helping students feel more relaxed and comfortable at school. For many students, spending time with Bear can help reduce anxiety, support emotional regulation, and create positive associations with attending school. Bear also encourages connection, routine, and a sense of responsibility, contributing to a nurturing and welcoming atmosphere that supports both wellbeing and engagement in learning.
Flexible learning as a wellbeing strategy
Flexible learning options play an important role in supporting student wellbeing. Adjusted timetables, alternative learning settings, and applied pathways help reduce pressure and allow students to engage at a pace that is realistic and sustainable. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for students who may find traditional school structures overwhelming.
Individual learning and wellbeing planning
Support at Urban College is tailored to the individual. Learning plans consider academic goals alongside wellbeing needs, ensuring appropriate adjustments are made. This may include modified workloads, alternative assessment approaches, or additional support time with staff, all designed to help students succeed without unnecessary stress.
Building life skills and resilience
Wellbeing support extends beyond immediate challenges. Students are supported to develop essential life skills such as communication, problem-solving, emotional awareness, and self-advocacy. These skills support not only their learning at school but also their transition into further education, training, or employment.
Collaboration with families and support networks
Urban College works closely with families, carers, and external professionals to ensure a coordinated approach to student wellbeing. Open and ongoing communication helps create consistency between home and school, strengthening the support network around each student.
In summary
Urban College supports student wellbeing alongside learning by creating a connected, flexible, and supportive educational environment. Through strong relationships, integrated wellbeing and counselling support, personalised learning approaches, and the unique presence of Bear the therapy dog, students are supported to re-engage with education and build confidence for the future.
Families seeking a school that prioritises both wellbeing and meaningful learning are encouraged to contact Urban College to discuss how support can be tailored to their child’s needs.
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