Philosophy

The School is a caring community which tries to ensure that every pupil is equally valued and supported throughout his/her school career. All pupils are encouraged to achieve their full personal and academic potential and to work out their own moral and religious principles. Opportunities to take increasing responsibility for themselves and others, and to take part in community activities are an important aspect of school life.

The School's pastoral care structure plays a vital role in the pursuit of these aims.

Pastoral care structure

1. All members of staff - have a responsibility for the pastoral care of other members of the School community.

2. Form Tutors - are responsible for the day to day welfare and personal development of the pupils in their tutor group (please see the Form Tutor job description in the White section).

3. The Heads of Lower and Middle School - are responsible for maintaining an overview of the pastoral welfare of pupils in their respective year groups by:

· keeping personal records of pupils and ensuring that they are updated regularly

· working with and advising Form Tutors when appropriate

· keeping the Deputy Head (Pastoral) and Headmaster informed of pastoral matters as appropriate

· liaising with the School Nursing Sister, the School Doctors, School Counsellor, School Chaplain, parents, and outside agencies, as appropriate

4. The Deputy Head (Pastoral) - has responsibility for the welfare of the pupils in consultation with the Heads of Lower and Middle School, the Housemaster/mistresses and the Tutors. She also takes responsibility for Staff care and welfare.

5.The Headmaster - has overall responsibility for the pastoral welfare of every member of the School community.

6. The School Chaplains - play an important role in the pastoral care of all pupils with particular concern for their moral and spiritual welfare, and in the pastoral care of teaching and auxiliary staff.

7. The School Nursing Sister - can be consulted about medical issues or any illness that occurs during the School day. She will refer pupils to the School Doctors if appropriate. She is also available to advise and see Members of Staff. Her Surgery is in Weymouth House.

8. The School Doctors - are available for consultation by all pupils and all Staff. The Doctors hold a surgery in the School Surgery on Mondays at 4.00pm (Dr Caroline Wingfield) and Fridays (Dr McBride) at 5.00pm.

9. The School Counsellor - is in School on Thursdays from 5.00-8.00pm. She is available to see any pupil by appointment (through Sue Marklew) or more informally in the Boarding Houses. Staff are encouraged to suggest that pupils make contact with Mary Thornett to discuss individual problems. The Deputy Head (Pastoral) must be kept informed.

Sue Marklew Deputy Head (Pastoral)