PASTORAL CARE
Caring for our students is at the heart of everything we do at SWPS. We focus on students as individuals, encouraging them to achieve their potential and explore their interests in an atmosphere where they feel supported, encouraged and appreciated. We want every student to enjoy their time at SWPS. We know students achieve their best and are most motivated to learn when they are happy and feel supported and valued. We take mental and physical health and well-being very seriously and have a comprehensive pastoral structure in place throughout the School.
The structure of the School, centred as it is around the pastoral team, Heads of Year and tutors, creates a robust network of staff dedicated to looking after every child here. But pastoral care does not rest only with certain members of staff, the whole community knows it is fundamental to every aspect of school life.
Our wellbeing programme prepares pupils for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of life, and our holistic approach embeds chances to enhance wellbeing within a broader educational programme. To that end we have produced a series of webinars and podcasts for parents, helping to encourage open lines of communication between student, parent and school and offering insights into issues which matter to young people today.
By creating opportunities for students to ask questions and discuss important topics, we help them explore difficult themes in a safe and supportive environment.
Our latest inspection report concluded:
"...positive outcomes are developed through a well organised caring proactive pastoral system which has developed a mutually supportive set of common values. This leaves all pupils knowing there is always someone to talk to and that they will be supported in making the right decision when facing difficult choices regarding leading a moral life."
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION AND BELONGING (DEIB)
We believe that a diverse learning environment enriches the educational experience for all our students. We are committed to cultivating a sense of belonging for all. This means every member of the community from Governors to staff members and all our pupils and their families. You should feel that your views, experiences and history are valid, no matter your gender, sexual orientation, race, religious belief, disability or socio-economic background.
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION AND BELONGING (DEIB)
WELLBEING
Our approach to wellbeing is designed to equip SWPS pupils with the knowledge, insights and confidence to cope with the challenges and changes of their teenage years and allow them to reflect on these topics in the supportive environment of the School community.
We integrate themes related to wellbeing into broader aspects of school life, so that staff are actively thinking about and discussing topics which are relevant and important to pupils as they progress thorough the School.
It is understood that pupils will be happier and able to achieve their full potential when they are healthy in body and mind. We take a holistic view towards the health and wellbeing of our pupils which encompasses all relevant areas of school life.
WELLBEING ROOM
At the centre of the campus, our Wellbeing Room is for the whole community and is managed by our Student Support Officers who are on hand all day to listen and care for students who need them.
The inspectors noticed:
"...pupils commented very positively on the school's leadership for its introduction of a dedicated wellbeing centre staffed by onsite counsellors to sensitively address the possible impact of mental illness and stress on pupils as they felt they had somewhere to go if they felt unhappy."
- How do you identify a struggling student and how do you address this?
- How do you deal with bullying?
- What support do new students get; my daughter doesn’t know anyone?
- What SEND provision do you have?
- How do you support student wellbeing?