A Human Approach to Pastoral Care | St Christopher School

Senior School Pastoral Care and Wellbeing

At St Chris, we believe that school days should be great days, and a focus on wellbeing and excellent pastoral care is the foundation of everything we stand for.

Our commitment ensures that students not only enjoy being at school but also actively want to engage in the learning process. Our central philosophy is that children flourish when they feel safe, respected and cared for, in a place where they feel a sense of belonging.

Our culture encourages collaboration, respect, and kindness, and fosters an environment where children can thrive personally, socially, and academically. Our inclusive approach removes communication barriers, making students more confident in asking questions and addressing concerns.

A Safe and Happy Community

Creating a safe and secure environment for the young people in our care is fundamental to that we do and the cornerstone of our pastoral care.

Our pastoral care revolves around people and relationships. By understanding the unique needs of each student through active listening and open discussions, we create a supportive culture that addresses issues swiftly and privately.

The first port of call for students in the Senior School is their Adviser – our name for a Form Tutor. Our Advisers walk the journey of school life alongside their students and become a ‘critical friend’ to our young people. 

They act as a ‘friend’ should- they listen but they are willing to challenge, they advocate without question but will point out mistakes where they’ve happened, they will be a safe haven whenever they are needed to be one.

When young people have this security, they can have a true zest for life.

Senior School pupils in class at St Chris

Pastoral Structure

Advisers are supported by their Head of Year and they, in turn, are supported by the Assistant Head (Pastoral Care). Our social and emotional mental health pastoral assistant and pastoral assistant also play a key role in the day to day support of our students.

Additionally, our team includes counsellors and an onsite School Nurse to provide comprehensive support. Our pastoral team is based in our pastoral care and wellbeing hub called The Mulberry Building. The Mulberry houses dedicated wellbeing spaces where young people can come whenever they need support.

Senior School pupil holding a rabbit

Mental Health and Wellbeing

At St Chris our student’s emotional development takes place hand in hand with their academic development – the two are not mutually exclusive. 

Our PSHE programme focuses on wellbeing and mental health in each year of the school with curriculum time dedicated to personal development, ensuring that pupils are able to recognise when they might need a little help and that they know where to turn for support.

Support for Parents

Across the school, parents have access to The Wellbeing Hub, a support network which offers parents webinars and resources on topical subjects to aid in supporting their child with real-world problems.

Parent Surgeries are also available once a week for parents; these sessions are an opportunity for parents to discuss worries, concerns, and feedback with Rich Jones, Head.
Peer Support
New students are paired with buddies, and Sixth Form Peer Mentors provide additional support. This mentorship system helps students settle into school life and offers guidance on both pastoral and academic matters.

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