The Importance of Pastoral Care in Schools

Pastoral care helps to support the physical and emotional welfare of each student. This is why pastoral care is one of the most important responsibilities within a school.  Pastoral care duties are usually shared between school staff and teachers, but it should extend to the whole school.

An effective pastoral care programme ensures the success and personal development of all children, so they can thrive academically and socially. It should also encourage pupils to respect each other and celebrate diversity.

To get a better understanding of why pastoral care is so important, an independent school in London   has shared the following information…

Pastoral care practices are often integrated into lessons. For example, children are taught about bullying, mental health and sex education, as well as road safety and online safety. Many schools have their own Pastoral Care Manager who is in charge of monitoring and supporting children’s emotional and behavioural needs, as well as assisting with learning difficulties.

From playground injuries to sickness bugs, pastoral care covers the many procedures schools need to deal with accidents and illnesses. If your child’s school offers immunisation programmes, this would also fall under a pastoral care duty. A Pastoral Care Manager is also responsible for liaising with parents and carers to ensure that children are protected from neglect, abuse and exploitation.

Ensuring the school premises are safe and secure also comes under the pastoral care system. This is usually assigned to a caretaker to oversee. They will check all school boundaries are secure and that the fire alarm system is tested regularly. School security also ensures that everyone visiting the school is signed in and closely monitored.

Pastoral care at boarding school is supervised by the boarding staff. They need to be on-hand to provide additional support for children staying away from home. These children may need additional help with certain household duties, transport or making arrangements for cultural and religious celebrations.

 

Note: This is a collaborative post