*This is a collaborative post
In simple terms, pastoral care is what a school offers its students to ensure they are physically and emotionally secure, as well as performing to the best of their abilities academically. Research has found that children who have better health and wellbeing tend to perform better in their education, so one could argue that the two go hand in hand. That’s why pastoral care is important. I have teamed up with an independent school in Surrey to explore the importance of pastoral care in further detail.
To help you understand what pastoral care actually involves, here are some examples:
Form tutors who meet with a smaller group of students at least once a day to monitor their academic progress and wellbeing, and liaise with parents where necessary
House systems which promote a sense of community spirit within the school, which helps students feel like they belong and allows them to build stronger relationships with their peers
Caretakers who are responsible for ensuring the school is safe and secure, while also dealing with any maintenance issues
School counsellors who are able to meet with children who might be struggle with their mental health or other issues, like friendship problems or trouble at home
These are just a few examples of what’s involved in good pastoral care. Each of these elements play a role in ensuring children feel safe and happy at school. They foster a friendly and orderly atmosphere in which children are able to achieve their goals, enhance their academic achievements and maintain mutual respect for one another. Essentially, good pastoral care helps students become more confident in their abilities, not only in an academic sense but also in the way they cope with and overcome certain challenges.
When looking for a school for your child, be sure to chat to the teaching staff about their pastoral care provisions and have a look at their policies and procedures online. This will give you a greater understanding in what’s involved in ensuring your child has a happy and successful experience.
