What is Hygge?

The concept of ‘Hygge’ (which can be pronounced hue-guh) is about embracing the simple moments in life with such joy and appreciation and can be felt.  Whether it be a meal at home with good friends, playing board games or taking time to enjoy a sunny but cold woodland walk. In Denmark and other Scandinavian countries, it is seen as the pathway for happiness and good mental health. 

At Silfield Oak, we value the concept of Hygge and promote the following in our school:

Atmosphere: Creating a calm vibe

Presence: Living in the moment

Pleasure: It should be fun, enjoyable and bring great happiness

Equality: Every one is welcome and has the same opportunities and rights

Togetherness: Spending time together as a school community

Gratitude: Take time to reflect on what we are grateful for

Harmony: Promoting a harmonious culture, built on kindness, where everyone has a sense of belonging

Comfort: Relax and be cosy

Shelter: Our school is safe place and is a home from home

(Taken from ‘The Little Book of Hygge’ by Meik Wiking)

Hygge at Silfield Oak

There is a direct link between wellbeing and happiness. At Silfield Oak we strive to ensure all children have high levels of wellbeing and are enjoying their learning.

We use the children’s interests to plan fun, enjoyable and engaging learning activities.

We dedicate time to listen to the children and give them a voice. We build in times of togetherness, allowing children to talk about their feelings. Lunchtimes are a calm time for togetherness where the children will grow with independence, have time to socialise, along with music and flowers on the tables from real plates etc (not industrial ones).

Each classroom has a family display board with photos of their loved ones on, this supports children to talk about home and reinforces the value of a partnership with our families.

We teach our children to respect and appreciate the natural world. We spend lots of time outdoors, observing and taking care of our environment. We talk about what we are grateful and thankful for at school and at home.

Through our school values we show kindness and belonging to others around us, develop an understanding of compassion and treat everybody equally.

Our learning environments are carefully planned to be neutral, calm, and we provide real and natural resources for children to use in their learning.