We take our pastoral responsibility very seriously. We believe that we are in a positive, supportive partnership with parents as we share the concern for the well-being of their sons. The Junior School aims to promote a safe and caring community. Boys are encouraged to take responsibility for their actions and show consideration and respect for people and their surroundings. They are expected to demonstrate good manners and show tolerance towards people from a wide range of ethnic and social backgrounds. The pastoral aims of the Junior School are supported by our ‘core values’ (which were generated by the boys).
To ensure that boys settle in happily, we have an Induction afternoon in the Summer Term prior to their arrival. They will meet their new form tutor and new classmates. Before arriving at the College, all boys will be paired with a ‘buddy’ from his Day House. This older pupil will write to him introducing himself, show him around the school during Induction afternoon and will help with the settling in process.
As boys progress through the Junior School, they are given increasing responsibility. Each form elects a Form Captain who represents his peers on the Junior School Council and Year 6 boys act as House Captains. Year 6 boys are also given an opportunity to be guides on Open Morning and sit on the Catering and Eco Committees. Furthermore, they act as monitors, helping in assembly and the playground.
The Junior School employs a system of rewards and sanctions. Boys are rewarded with House points and Commendation in Years 5 and 6 and House points and Certificates in Years 3 and 4. These are given for high academic achievement and effort, particular acts of generosity, helpfulness, care and concern for others and good manners. Boys’ achievements are regularly celebrated in assemblies.
A boy’s Form Tutor is, in the first instance, responsible for his pastoral care and he/she will communicate regularly with his parents. Parents are encouraged to contact Form Tutors via the Prep Contact Book which goes home every day, by email, by telephone or in person before or after the school day. We believe it is far better to address issues as they arise, and find that things can often be resolved relatively easily if we keep the lines of communication open. There is also a weekly newsletter from the Head of Junior School which celebrates boys’ achievements and gives notice of forthcoming dates and events.