Wellington College Shortlisted for BSA Awards

Published by Wellington College on Tuesday 14th of April 2026

Wellington College is proud to be shortlisted for the Wellbeing and Mental Health Initiative Award at the Boarding Schools’ Association (BSA) Supporting Excellence Awards 2026, with Vani A (10 Ap) also shortlisted for the Khadija Saye Photography Award.    

Now in its ninth year, the BSA Awards are a highlight of the boarding school calendar, celebrating excellence and innovation across the sector. This recognition reflects the College’s commitment to fostering a culture of wellbeing, resilience and healthy living. 

Central to this work is the appointment of our Head of Wellness and Physical Fitness, Mike Wyndham, in April 2025. Through a joined-up approach spanning pastoral care, sport, nutrition and academic support, Mike has led a range of initiatives empowering students to make positive lifestyle choices at school and beyond. 

Mike Wyndham, Head of Wellness and Physical Fitness, says, “Giving students the knowledge to make informed choices around sleep, movement, nutrition and stress allows them to flourish  long after Wellington.” 

Recent developments include: 

• Improved nutrition and healthier choices, with reduced sugar, fewer ultra-processed snacks and greater student education  

• Sleep and stress management programmes, including mindfulness, yoga and improved screen habits  

• Increased opportunities for physical activity, including gym literacy, a girls’ strength training class, outdoor gym facilities and a 5km cross-country trail  

• Community initiatives such as the “cold plunge and run”, promoting resilience and camaraderie  

• Programmes with Bold Voices addressing relationships, gender and wellbeing  

• The introduction of the DOSE framework, embedding habits that support mood, motivation and connection

Together, these initiatives support mental health, build confidence and strengthen our sense of community. 

Celebrating Student Achievement 

We are also very proud to share that Vani A (10 Ap) has been nominated for her outstanding photography. 

Vani’s passion began at age 10, inspired by travels across Asia and Africa. Specialising in wildlife photography, her work shows patience, technical skill and a keen eye for capturing natural, unposed moments. Using a Canon EOS R7 with both 18–150mm and 100–500mm lenses, she adapts confidently to different environments and subjects. 

Her portfolio features images from the Maasai Mara, Kruger National Park and Kahna National Park in India, capturing both dramatic animal behaviour and intimate moments of connection. 

Now studying GCSE Photography, Vani continues to develop her craft and is currently working on a commission to exhibit her work within the College’s Biology Department.

On being shortlisted, Vani said: “Being shortlisted for the BSA Khadija Saye Photography Award is incredibly special and exciting. It has strengthened my belief in my creativity and motivates me to keep capturing meaningful stories through my lens. Knowing the reputation of this award makes the recognition even more meaningful and inspiring.”  

Winners will be announced at the BSA Supporting Excellence Awards Dinner on Tuesday 5 May 2026. 

We are proud to be recognised alongside leading schools and to celebrate both our commitment to wellbeing and the achievements of our students. Congratulations to Vani!