Nurturing Intrinsic Motivation: Our Rewards Approach

At Fern House School, our ultimate goal is to help our pupils feel motivated by intrinsic feelings – that deep, inner sense of satisfaction and happiness. We know this takes time and consistent support. We guide them to recognise these positive feelings, especially those moments that boost their "oxytocin" (the feel-good hormone!). Since humans are evidence-seeking, we always back up our praise with real-life connections: "I can see you're smiling! I wonder if you're feeling happy because you earned some money for the Woodland Shop today? It's a great feeling when you're successful!"

Before pupils fully develop this intrinsic motivation, we provide positive reinforcement through a clear rewards system. Critically, our rewards are always linked to feelings, constantly reinforcing the connection between their actions and how they feel. A key part of this is The Woodland Shop.

The Woodland Shop: Earning & Learning

Pupils have the opportunity to earn virtual money weekly by consistently demonstrating our school values. This is reviewed by their class team every Friday. Depending on their progress, pupils can earn up to £1 per value.

They can then spend their accumulated virtual money at our on-site Woodland Shop at the end of each half-term. At the beginning of a new half-term, all virtual money resets to £0.00, providing a fresh start and new opportunities to earn.