Pastoral Care in Seniors

FOCUSING ON THE INDIVIDUAL

As girls enter the Seniors, our aim is to ensure a smooth transition for all girls, regardless of whether they join from our Juniors or another school. We are keen to help girls develop, both academically and personally, and the pastoral system is very much designed with the individual girl in mind.  

Pastoral care in the Senior School is about placing the individual at the centre of our community. Our experienced team gets to know the girls, their strengths and challenges, to give each girl the personalised support that will allow them to develop at their own pace and time. We create an environment where our pupils are able to flourish. Not only do we encourage them to seek support or advice when they need it, but we also empower them to problem solve and empathise with others, developing the skills they require to become balanced, compassionate and resilient young women. 

TUTORS

Our dedicated team of tutors is at the heart of this system. Our tutors take the time to get to know the girls both in school and through a range of enrichment activities such as camp outs, fun trips and residentials. The girls will see their tutors three times a day, allowing for regular check-ins and opportunities for any concerns or questions to be raised.

The tutors are also the first port of call for any parent queries, allowing us to work as a team, supporting the pupil whilst encouraging independence and developing confidence. Most lessons in lower seniors will be taught in tutor group, whilst around 40% of lessons are taught with other members of the year group. This allows the girls to develop friendships with a range of people, and creates a greater sense of community within the year group. 

As well as a tutor, each Year 7 is also given a 'Big Sister’. This is an older pupil who will meet with them regularly, getting to know them better and supporting them wherever possible. The Big Sister acts as a sounding board as well as being that more personal ‘friendly face’ if they have worries or concerns. 

COMMUNITY

Our pupils want to contribute to society and know they have something to give. All staff members share the responsibility of caring for our pupils and we encourage a culture of approachability throughout the school. This ethos also underpins the relationship we create with parents. We know that providing for the well-being of our pupils is central in helping them to become purposeful, caring and happy individuals.

Each girl is a member of a House, which runs vertically from Year 2 through to Year 11. Regular house competitions allow the girls to get to know those in other year groups, as well as creating a sense of community. The coveted House Cup is awarded each year at prize giving for the house that has collected the most House Points throughout the year. The girls can work towards taking on a Leadership role in the Houses in Year 11. The houses also run regular fundraising initiatives for a range of charities of their choosing.  

EXTRA SUPPORT

At times we all need a helping hand, and we know teenage years can be difficult. Our Heads of Phase oversee the tutor system and are poised to step in when needed.

One-to-one support can be given through mentoring, or more specialist guidance can be offered through our highly skilled team of ELSA’s (Emotional Literacy Support Assistance), Active Listeners or through the School Counsellor.

Jasper our school dog is also on hand for those days when we just need a hug!
 

"We feel very informed and impressed at the clear expertise of all subject teachers and their dedication. The teaching and pastoral team have enabled our daughter to flourish and we feel very lucky that she is at St Nicks."

Senior School Parent