The contribution of arrangements for pastoral care is excellent …….The pastoral care provided for pupils throughout the school fulfils its aims in providing an education that is caring, and encourages respect and courtesy for others….. (ISI inspection, February 2012).
We aim to create a community with a family feel and nurturing atmosphere, in which each pupil is recognised and valued as an individual, develops self-respect and is able to develop meaningful and caring relationships with others. High expectations and standards are asked of each member of the community and this allows a friendly and relaxed atmosphere to pervade the school
The Deputy Head oversees the pupils' welfare arrangements in conjunction with Heads of Key Stage. All members of staff share concern for each pupil’s welfare and well-being. Every pupil belongs to a form group headed by a form tutor who takes a special interest in the development of the students in their care. In addition house staff are also closely involved in monitoring and supporting the personal and academic development of the boarding pupils. The school is proud that a new pupil does not remain new for long and is soon known as an individual who is closely monitored to ensure they achieve their full potential.
The school uses a combination of both rewards and sanctions to maintain standards and encourage positive behaviour coupled with a deep understanding that young people make mistakes from which they can learn. There is an ethos that expects no pupil, through their behaviour, to negatively affect the learning of others.
Time is spent ensuring that a pupil who has transgressed, understands where they have gone wrong and great emphasis is placed on putting things right as a way of resolving issues. Development of self-discipline and self-awareness are key aims of the pastoral system. Co-operation is encouraged as a way to solve disputes rather than allowing conflict to develop.
Pastoral meetings are held on a regular basis with the emphasis being placed on the personal and academic welfare of pupils. The meetings allow actions plans to be created to help individual pupils to improve their performance or overcome difficulties. Support can be put in place to help resolve personal difficulties that might be arising and the school has excellent relationships with local youth services to which pupils can be signposted if needed. The school also employs a qualified counsellor available to both boarding and day pupils.
Medical issues are dealt with from a well equipped First Aid Centre and appropriately qualified staff. This facility serves both our day and boarding pupils. Boarders are registered with the local surgery in Selby from whom advice and medical oversight is given.
The school values openness and will contact parents/guardians over any concerns. This is not a one-way process and conversely, contact from parents who wish to communicate concerns is encouraged and welcomed.
The school has an active school council through which pupil representatives can put forward ideas for improving our community or to raise concerns that affect pupils learning or well-being. There is also a food committee on which pupils are represented to discuss menus and dietary requirements.