Pastoral Care
Good pastoral care is of prime importance. In order for each child to fulfil their potential both academically and socially, the environment in which they operate has to be conducive to this. Students must feel happy and engaged at school, but must be equally disciplined and well-mannered. If a child is to thrive at school, they must be completely at ease with their surroundings.
We were very proud that the inspectors who visited us recently noted "the strong sense of family, which permeates the whole school community." (ISI Inspection Report, January 2017)
"The feeling of a cohesive and caring community struck me immediately; every child is valued." Parent
Pastoral Structure
Head of Senior School, John Wilson, leads and oversees the work of a dedicated and dynamic group of form teachers. Our form teachers play a vital role in mentoring, monitoring progress and well-being, guiding and encouraging each pupil, taking a particular interest in all aspects of the individual’s development.
The form teacher is the first contact for pupils or their parents if any issues arise, pastoral or academic. Every care is taken to ensure that problems, big or small, are resolved sensitively, quickly and effectively. Pupils who wish to do so can have access to a School Counsellor on a weekly basis.
"Your child will never be swallowed up or ignored but recognised, supported and encouraged." Parent
Behaviour
"The pupils' high standards of behaviour are underpinned by consistent behaviour management and the respectful relationships established between staff and pupils." ISI Inspection Report, January 2017
Supporting Independence
Senior pupils take up roles of responsibility as House Captains and Prefects and many volunteer to work with younger pupils, developing crucial leadership skills. An elected School Council, with budget to spend and a role in reviewing relevant policies, ensures that students play their part in decision making. Regular surveys and consultations ensure that our pupils' opinions and perspectives are understood and taken into account.
Our focus is on developing independence: we give pupils the opportunity to have a voice in any decisions made regarding their lives, and ensure that they take personal responsibility for their actions and progress wherever possible.