4 minute read
Empowering girls
Newcastle High School for Girls (NHSG) is a hive of confidence, diversity and success. From just three years’ old, girls are encouraged to celebrate their individuality and be whatever - and whoever - they want to be Firmly established as the leading girls’ school in the North East, NHSG is on a mission to champion an all-girl education in the 21st century. An all-girl education provides the perfect foundation for infinite possibilities. In removing gendered roles, blasting stereotypes and providing a safe and supportive culture in which to take risks and learn creatively, NHSG pupils are empowered to take an equal place in the world - to be leaders, trailblazers and world shapers. As specialists in girls’ education, NHSG tailors its teaching to the way girls learn best, and instils in them the conviction that there’s no limit to what they can achieve. Under the guidance of Michael Tippett, who was appointed as Head in 2018, NHSG has seen a significant uplift in its examination results, winning it the award of The Sunday Times NE Independent Secondary School 2020. Alongside excellent teaching and learning, NHSG takes pastoral care and personal development equally as seriously. The importance of equipping girls with the broader life skills and values that combine to make happy, healthy and fulfilling lives is a binding principle that runs throughout the school. Within this empowering environment, girls are given the space to develop in their own confidence and sense of self, and ultimately follow their ambitions while at the same time supporting those around them - characteristics that are truly coming to the fore when faced with the challenges of a pandemic. NHSG has, during these difficult times, been prepared for every eventuality moving to live remote teaching through its excellent Guided Home Learning programme during both lockdowns, and continuing to deliver an exciting education now that the pupils have returned to school. This has meant that all girls at NHSG have continued to learn and progress, whether at home or in school. If your daughter loves to learn and you’d like to find out more about the exceptional education provided at NHSG, please get in touch by calling: 0191 201 6511 or visiting: newcastlehigh.gdst.net.
Sleep easy
Elysia Fryer chats to the ‘super nanny’ who believes a nourishing night-time routine is key to a happier, healthier childhood
Sleep...
Sleep is so important for your child’s development - physically, emotionally and cognitively. It aids the growth and recovery of cells and affects their happiness, moods and attention. Ways to help your child gain a better night’s sleep: Artificial blue light suppresses the production of melatonin, which is the hormone responsible for making us feel sleepy. Reducing blue light/screen time ideally two to three hours before bedtime will improve your child’s quality of sleep. Avoid playing action-packed computer games close to bedtime as the thrill and action will increase the levels of adrenaline and body temperature, which can result in difficulty getting to sleep. Avoid heavy meals and sugary foods close to bedtime. Eat regular meals throughout the day. Cool their bedroom temperature to between 16-20°C. Encourage relaxation time with a bath, massage or breathing techniques. Talking through any concerns or questions your child may have and be empathetic towards their fears, but most of all be a good listener so they can go to bed with a clear mind. Adjust bedtimes and morning wake-ups over a week to accommodate set school hours and avoid long weekend lie–ins for older children.
Social interaction...
Many of our children will struggle with social interaction when the time comes and they are allowed to engage with friends again. Encouraging telephone conversations, meeting in the park and slowly getting back to our social lives will take time. Don’t push your child, but allow them to engage with others in their own time. Don’t draw attention to them if they are shy or struggling to leave your side. Be patient and encourage by example. As extracurricular activities start up again, we will feel a sense of pressure to attend all. Take time adapting to the new way of life after such a long break. Don’t feel your child needs to participate in everything they did prior to home studying. We may need to phase things out this coming year. As the days get longer, the weather gets nicer and more freedom is allowed, all we want to do is provide a safe, secure and loving environment for our children to grow up in. Stay safe but enjoy catching up with your nearest and dearest.
