Blog by Kate Latham, Assistant Head (Teaching & Learning)
Choosing the right school is about more than academic results. For many families, it comes down to one essential question: Will my child feel they belong?
At Kimbolton School, belonging sits at the heart of our community. It means that every pupil is known, valued and supported — while also being part of a school united by shared values, high expectations and a strong sense of purpose.
We believe that belonging starts with recognising individuality. Our pupils arrive with different personalities, backgrounds, cultures, beliefs and strengths. They learn in different ways, think differently, and bring with them a wide range of life experiences. We see these differences not as barriers, but as strengths that enrich our community.
At the same time, belonging at Kimbolton is rooted in what brings us together. Our pupils are united by clear values — kindness, curiosity, courage, endeavour and integrity — which shape daily life in the classroom, on the sports field, on the stage and beyond.
Like a jigsaw puzzle, every pupil is unique, but each plays an important role in the whole.
Listening to our pupils
We regularly ask our pupils how they experience school life, including how strongly they feel a sense of belonging. Their feedback helps us reflect honestly on what we do well and where we can continue to improve.
Recent pupil feedback shows that the vast majority of pupils feel a strong sense of belonging at Kimbolton, and almost all feel confident interacting with people who are different from themselves. Pupils also value the many ways school life helps them feel connected — from pastoral care and wellbeing support to clubs, societies, music, sport, drama, house events and whole-school gatherings.
This focus on listening to pupil voice is central to how we shape our school culture.
A school that reflects and responds
Belonging is not static. We know that creating an inclusive, supportive environment requires ongoing reflection and action.
In response to pupil feedback, we continue to make thoughtful changes to strengthen community life. These include:
- Expanding pupil voice through forums and committees that influence school decisions.
- Reviewing and clarifying behaviour expectations so that kindness and respect are consistently upheld.
- Creating more opportunities for year groups to bond through dedicated activity days.
- Introducing new events that celebrate understanding, identity and community, including Neurodiversity Week and a whole-school Culture Day.
These changes reflect a school that listens carefully and responds thoughtfully.
High standards, warm relationships
At Kimbolton, belonging goes hand in hand with high expectations. Clear standards of behaviour ensure that all pupils feel safe, respected and supported. Pupils are encouraged to express themselves, develop confidence and form their own views — while also learning the importance of empathy, responsibility and mutual respect.
Our Learning DNA underpins this approach. It reflects our ambition to develop independent thinkers who are socially responsible, digitally literate and prepared for life beyond school. Combined with strong pastoral care, this creates an environment where pupils are challenged academically and supported personally.
A community your child can grow into
For prospective families, belonging at Kimbolton means joining a school that values individuality, nurtures confidence and places relationships at the centre of education.
We are proud of our community — one where pupils are encouraged to be themselves, supported to grow, and united by shared values.
All unique.
All united.
