At this time of year, the thoughts of gardeners are turning to Spring. This is when the planning happens – checking seeds from previous years and buying new ones; digging over and fertilizing the ground; mulling over gardening magazines and imagining the colours of flower borders and the lush richness of the vegetable patch. As the ground gets warmer and the days longer, the pace picks up and the number of tasks increases – planting and watering seeds, watching out for pests, weeding the ground and nurturing young plants. All of this care and attention eventually bears fruit, when the flowers and vegetables arrive in early summer. As a keen gardener, I look forward to this time of year immensely; I know that the attention and care I take now will pay off when the summer arrives, and there is pleasure to be had even from the winter garden when you know what the results of your hard work will be.

Friendships also need care and attention, nurturing and feeding. And like gardens, the care and attention that we take will produce fruit later. When we put in the time to listen, to connect, and to help our friends, we are sowing the seeds for happy and rewarding relationships. When we provide support, sit with people when they are upset, and sympathize with their worries, we are watering the ground so that the relationship can grow. All of our relationships need care and input at times so that they stay healthy and develop.

As we mature, our friendships change; some come to an end naturally, and some continue growing to become lifelong relationships. Whatever stage our friendships are at, perhaps we could take time to think about what care they might need right now. Is someone feeling under pressure? A cheerful word of support or a listening ear might make all the difference to their week. Is someone feeling lonely or isolated? Remind them that you are there and spend some time with them doing something they enjoy. Has someone made a mistake and is feeling bad about it? Reassure them that this is a common part of life and help them see how to put things right.

Our care and attention to friendships will not only help our friends. Just like with the garden, we will also reap the benefits of working to nurture them – in laughter, companionship and support when we need it.

Dr Hawes
Deputy Headteacher
Designated Safeguarding Lead