At St Peter’s, every student is recognised and valued as an individual. We take seriously our responsibility to make a positive difference to the young people in our care, supporting each one to reach their full potential, whatever their background, ability, culture, belief or disability.
We set high expectations and provide a caring, stable and inclusive environment where students can thrive. Our aim is to develop confident, capable young people who are well prepared for life beyond school. Strong partnerships between students, families, staff, governors and the wider community sit at the heart of our work.
Families can also access free resources on teenage stress, mental health and anxiety through the Charlie Waller charity.
Nationally, the mental health of young people has become an increasing concern. At St Peter’s, we have strengthened our support systems to ensure students can access help when they need it. A school counsellor is available three days a week, and we work closely with the Mental Health Support Team, who provide workshops, group sessions, one‑to‑one interventions and guidance for staff and parents. The team also attends parents’ evenings to support conversations around wellbeing.
We also run CHATBAR, a peer‑support programme where trained Sixth Form students offer a listening ear to younger pupils during break and lunch times. Any concerns raised are passed directly to the safeguarding team. In addition, a Wellbeing Group for Years 7–9 offers activities designed to promote positive mental health.
In July 2022, St Peter’s was awarded the Carnegie Centre of Excellence for Mental Health in Schools – Silver Award, recognising our commitment to supporting the wellbeing of both students and staff.
Research over the past decade has shown clear links between early adverse experiences and long‑term health and wellbeing. We encourage families to watch the introductory ACEs video provided on our website and to contact our pastoral team if they need further support.
Students and families can also access free, safe and anonymous online wellbeing support through Kooth Digital Health:
- Kooth.com for ages 11–18
- Qwell.io for adults 18+ Support includes live chat with counsellors, self‑help tools, articles and moderated forums.
St Peter’s works with a range of bursary providers and charitable trusts to help students access educational opportunities, clubs and trips. For details about support available for a specific activity, please speak to the trip or club organiser.
The Kite Trust offers support for LGBTQIA+ young people aged 13–25. A fortnightly group runs in Huntingdon on Wednesdays from 6–8pm, alternating with a group in St Neots.
To join or find out more: youthwork@thekitetrust.org.uk or go to their Website
St Peter’s is proud to hold the Rainbow Flag Award, a national quality mark recognising our commitment to positive LGBTQ+ inclusion and visibility. The award supports schools in developing whole‑school approaches to inclusion and in challenging homophobic, biphobic and transphobic bullying.
We run a well‑established LGBTQ+ student group open to all year groups. Through assemblies, staff training and inclusive teaching resources, we work to ensure every young person feels safe, respected and represented.
Wellbeing is embedded across our curriculum, particularly through Personal Development (PD) and our Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural (SMSC) programme. Students learn positive strategies to support their mental health and are encouraged to contribute to the school community through Student Leadership roles, Junior Sports Leaders and the School Council.
Young Carers at St Peter’s have access to a range of support and opportunities. A weekly Young Carers group runs every Thursday lunchtime (1.30–2.00pm) in B12, alongside an after‑school club from 3.05–4.05pm. Students can attend as often as they are able.
The club offers:
- A space to relax and play games
- Time for homework or computer access
- Support with schoolwork and school life
- Opportunities to meet other young carers and build friendships
Young Carers can also use a specially designed Young Carers Card during the school day to help communicate their needs to staff. Students must be registered with Centre 33 to receive a card.
Centre 33 provides support with mental health, caring responsibilities, housing, food, sexual health, money and more. A support worker visits St Peter’s fortnightly for one‑to‑one sessions.
To register with Centre 33 complete the referral form