Pocklington School boarding awarded 'Sleep Champion' status

The boarding team at Pocklington School participated in a webinar led by Lindsay Browning, a leading sleep expert and founder of troublesleeping.co.uk. Following this, the School reviewed its current practices within the boarding houses and identified new approaches to improve the sleep habits of pupils. The boarding staff's aim was to help boarders understand how better sleep could positively affect their overall wellbeing and academic success. Good quality, restorative sleep is important for pupils not just to provide them with the energy required to cope with their daily lives, but also for their overall and physical and mental wellbeing. It helps in refreshing their minds and retaining the information they have absorbed during the day.

The following key initiatives were praised in the BSA review.

• Pupils up to Fifth Year hand in their electronic devices 45 minutes before 'lights out' time at bedtime. The use of devices by Sixth Form students is closely monitored. The School Wi-Fi is switched off at 11.30pm which facilitates at least eight hours of sleep for all year groups.
• Educational initiatives, including PSHE lessons and tutor time in houses, videos and informational posters, highlight the importance of maintaining a healthy sleep routine and offer pupils practical tips to enhance their sleep habits.
• Suitable snacks and caffeine-free beverages, including herbal teas, are available in all house kitchens before bedtime.
• Blackout blinds or curtains are installed in every bedroom and dimmable or 'soft' lighting is available in bedrooms.

"The advantages of a restful night are widely acknowledged. I am delighted that our efforts to support our pupils in this regard have earned us the 'Sleep Champion' status.

"By practicing healthy sleep habits, our pupils are positioning themselves to take full advantage of all the opportunities available at Pocklington School."

Steve Greaves,
Head of Boarding at Pocklington School