Pastoral care

“Supported self-discipline” is how one recent Old Scholar described the close network of pastoral care at Sidcot; care which is very much influenced by our Quaker traditions. We recognise that natural personal development can involve stress and our network within the school helps to cope with this.

There is a relaxed atmosphere which depends on every member of the community being aware of expectations and maintaining high standards.  The School responds to lapses from these standards with a mixture of sanction and support.

Whilst Elizabeth Burgess, our Deputy Head Pastoral co-ordinates the students’ welfare arrangements in conjunction with Heads of Year, all members of staff share a concern for their students’ well being.  All students are members of tutor groups, and each Tutor has special responsibilities for the children in his or her care.  House staff oversee the personal and academic development of each boarder, Sidcot believing that the two aspects are very closely connected.

The School has its own Health Centre on the campus which is staffed by a team of nurses and the local GP (Doctor) - giving students a choice in who they see.   All boarders are registered with the local GP surgery under the National Health Service.

Senior School tutor groups send representatives to the Sidcot Student Union (School Council), through which students’ opinions can be expressed. The Head meets with the Chairperson of the Students’ Union regularly to consider the various requests and recommendations put forward.  There is also a student led Food Council that meets with the Catering Manager to discuss food, menus and arrangements for school events.

There are a number of social and general recreational areas where all age groups may mix.  The Sixth Form has its own facilities including a common room adjoining the Sixth Form studies.