Oxfordshire private school launches new scheme to help pupils

Amy Prior, head of first form at Cokethorpe School, has highlighted the importance of prioritising strong relationships and emotional wellbeing to ensure a smooth and confident start for pupils.

The day school has developed a structured integration programme designed to support pupils entering Year 7, which bosses say will ensure they feel connected before the academic year begins.

Mrs Prior said: “Friendships are the single most important factor for children at this age.

“If a child feels settled and connected, they are far more likely to thrive both socially and academically.”

Amy Prior, head of first form at Cokethorpe School (Image: Fortitude Communications)

Rather than beginning with a traditional first day in the classroom, new pupils take part in an overnight camp.

Delivered by outdoor education specialists, the experience includes team building activities.

“The aim is to gently push pupils outside their comfort zones,” Mrs Prior added.

“They arrive not knowing many people, but leave having formed connections and understanding who their support network is.”

With pupils joining from both the prep school and a wide range of external schools, activities are structured to encourage new friendships and prevent existing social groups from dominating, staff say.

Pupils at Cokethorpe School (Image: Fortitude Communications)

Small tutor groups, typically fewer than 10 pupils, enable staff to build a detailed understanding of each child. Combined with close communication between tutors and pastoral leaders, this allows for early identification of concerns.

“Every small detail matters,” said Mrs Prior. “We build a picture over time so we can step in early if needed.”

The school also offers regular one-to-one conversations between pupils and tutors.

Team building at Cokethorpe School (Image: Fortitude Communications)

These informal discussions, often conducted while walking, create a more relaxed environment where pupils feel comfortable.

Alongside this, systems such as secure digital messaging encourage pupils to raise concerns, reinforcing a culture of openness.

A strong house system further supports integration, connecting younger pupils with older students who provide guidance and reassurance.

“You’ll often see older pupils checking in on younger ones,” Mrs Prior added. “That sense of community is incredibly powerful.”

By prioritising relationships and emotional wellbeing from the outset, a spokesperson said Cokethorpe School is setting a clear foundation for long-term success.

Mrs Prior said: “As educators, our role is not just academic. It’s about helping children feel secure, capable and ready to take on challenges, both in school and beyond.”

Cokethorpe School is an independent, co-educational day school for pupils aged four to 18, located on a 150-acre parkland site near Witney.

It was founded in 1957 and became co-educational in 1992.