At St Vincent’s, we are proud of our Special Friends programme, which is a treasured tradition within our school community. This initiative pairs each child in Reception with a Year 6 buddy, forming a meaningful connection that supports both social and emotional development. These friendships are built on kindness, patience and mutual respect, helping our youngest pupils feel welcomed, safe, and valued from the very start of their school journey.

Throughout the year, our Special Friends meet regularly to share time together—whether it’s reading a book, helping with a class activity, walking into assembly, or enjoying a special event like Collective Worship or Sports Day. These moments allow Reception children to gain confidence and feel more at ease, while our Year 6 pupils develop responsibility, empathy, and leadership skills.

This bond not only supports a smooth transition into school life for our younger pupils, but also helps to strengthen the sense of family and community that lies at the heart of everything we do at St Vincent’s. By the time they reach Year 6, our older children often recall fondly their own experiences with their Special Friend, and take pride in passing on the same care and support they once received.

Our Special Friends programme reflects our core values of love, respect and service, and reminds us daily of the powerful impact of friendship and connection across the generations of our school.