Buddies
At Radwinter CofE (VA) Primary School, a Church of England Voluntary Aided School, we believe in nurturing a caring, supportive, and inclusive community where every child feels valued and can flourish. One of the special ways we live out our vision of “Growing and learning together to embrace life in all its fullness” is through our buddies, which foster friendship, support, and role-modelling between our oldest and youngest children.
What are Buddies?
Each year, our Year 6 children take on the important role of being buddies to our Reception children. This is a cherished tradition that the Year 6 children eagerly anticipate and approach with great responsibility and care. Buddies help Reception children settle confidently into school life and feel part of the Radwinter family from their very first days.
How Buddies Support Each Other
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Weekly Buddy Time: Year 6 and Reception buddies meet regularly for Buddy Time, engaging in a variety of activities that help build strong, trusting relationships. These shared moments promote social skills, kindness, and a sense of belonging.
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Buddy Lunch: Every Friday, buddies enjoy lunch together, offering further opportunities for connection and friendship in a relaxed setting.
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Role Models Throughout the School Day: Year 6 buddies support their Reception partners beyond Buddy Time by acting as positive role models during assemblies, playtimes, and across the school day. This visible support helps Reception children feel safe, confident, and encouraged as they explore their new environment.
Embodying Our Vision and Values
Our buddies beautifully reflect the Christian values at the heart of Radwinter CofE Primary School:
- Kindness and Service: Year 6 children demonstrate kindness by supporting their younger peers and serving as compassionate guides.
- Respect and Fairness: The relationships formed are rooted in mutual respect and fairness, ensuring every child feels heard and valued.
- Community and Dignity: Buddies foster a sense of community where each child’s unique talents and needs are celebrated, embodying our vision of life in all its fullness (John 10:10).
This experience not only benefits Reception children but also enriches our Year 6 buddies, helping them develop leadership skills, empathy, and a strong sense of responsibility.
Why Buddies Make Radwinter Special
Our buddies are just one example of how Radwinter CofE Primary School creates a nurturing, inclusive environment where children grow academically, socially, and spiritually. They help prepare our children for life in a diverse and ever-changing world by encouraging them to look outwards with kindness and understanding.
Join Us in Celebrating Our Buddies
We are proud of the way our buddies bring our school community together and support every child’s wellbeing and happiness. If you would like to learn more about how we care for and support our children through initiatives like this, please do get in touch or visit us to experience the warmth and spirit of Radwinter CofE Primary School first hand.
Together, through friendship and faith, we help every child flourish and embrace life in all its fullness.