St Columba’s School Shortlisted for Independent School of the Year for Student Wellbeing

Published by St Columba's School, Kilmacolm on Wednesday 20th of August 2025

We are absolutely delighted to announce that St Columba’s School has been shortlisted for the prestigious Independent School of the Year Award for Student Wellbeing!

This recognition is a significant milestone for our community, highlighting our unwavering commitment to supporting the mental, emotional, and social well-being of every pupil. At St Columba’s, we believe that student wellbeing is the foundation for academic success, personal growth, and lifelong resilience - and we are proud to see that belief reflected in our day-to-day practice and now recognised at a national level.

The Independent Schools of the Year awards, organised by Independent School Parent, were created to celebrate the exceptional work being done in independent schools across the UK. Each year, the awards shine a spotlight on schools that demonstrate excellence, innovation, and dedication to the development of their pupils.

This year saw a record number of nominations, which makes our shortlisting all the more meaningful. Dr Helen Wright, Chair of the Judging Panel, shared that the judges were particularly moved by the “resilience and determination shown by the UK independent schools’ sector in the face of unprecedented challenge to their existence.” We are honoured to be counted among schools that continue to lead with heart, strength, and innovation - especially in times of adversity.

At St Columba’s, wellbeing is not a single programme; it’s a culture. From our data-driven PSE programmes and dedicated pastoral care team to our proactive mental health initiatives and inclusive school ethos, everything we do is guided by the principle that happy, healthy students thrive.

We also extend our heartfelt congratulations to all of the other schools that have been shortlisted in this category. Having made it onto the shortlist, we now have to wait until September to find out if we are one of the finalists. The winners will be announced in October.

Whatever the outcome, we will always continue to place student wellbeing at the heart of everything we do. Thank you to all of our staff, students, parents, and wider community who make this recognition possible