Pastoral Care in Juniors

APPRECIATING THE INDIVIDUAL

The transition into Junior School is a significant step in every child’s journey, and at St Nicholas’ School, we strive to make it as smooth and enriching as possible. Whether girls are joining us from our Infant School or from another school, our goal is to provide them with the support they need to thrive academically and personally. Our pastoral care system is built with the individual girl in mind. 

At the heart of our Junior School community is a commitment to treating every girl as an individual. Our small classes enable our form tutors to form strong relationships with each pupil, understanding their strengths and unique needs. This allows us to offer a tailored approach to support, and challenge each girl to grow at their own pace, unlocking their full potential. 

Within the Junior School, we are focused on helping our pupils build resilience, independence and confidence - skills that will serve them well as they transition to our Senior School. There is a strong sense of community and girls are taught to look out for those around them, to be compassionate towards others and develop skills in teamwork and collaboration.   

Within the Junior School, we are focused on helping our pupils build resilience, independence, and confidence - skills that will serve them well as they transition to our Senior School. Our goal is for every girl to feel secure in a nurturing environment where she can flourish, both as a pupil and as a person. 

  

TUTORS

Our dedicated team of form tutors is at the heart of the pastoral care system. These caring and dedicated teachers are with the girls every day, both in class and during enrichment activities such as residential trips, camp outs, and special outings. This consistent presence allows tutors to offer regular check-ins, support, and guidance, ensuring that any concerns can be addressed quickly and thoughtfully.

Our Junior School tutors are also the first port of call for any parent queries, allowing us to work as a team to support the pupil whilst encouraging independence and developing pupils’ confidence.  Most lessons are taught in the tutor group, although mathematics is set across the year group and some of the academic subjects are taught in year groups, such as games lessons.   

 

COMMUNITY

Our pupils want to contribute to society and know they have something to give. All staff members share in 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 to 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 houses also run regular fundraising initiatives for a range of charities of their choosing.  

 

EXTRA SUPPORT

We understand that at times, extra support is necessary. Whether it’s through one-to-one mentoring, or specialist guidance from our highly skilled team of ELSA’s (Emotional Literacy Support Assistants), Active Listeners, or the School Counsellor, we’re committed to providing the right kind of help when it's needed.

Jasper, our school dog, is also always there for a comforting cuddle! 

"The quality of the pupils' personal development is excellent

Pupils successfully develop a quiet and calm level of high self-esteem, confidence, responsibility and caring attitudes."

ISI Inspection, May 2022