Meet Mrs Beverley Ingleton: Your First Point of Contact in the Pastoral Office
Our Pastoral Team lies at the heart of our school, championing the well-being of every pupil.
As part of our Behind the Scenes at Bancroft’s series, we took a moment from Mrs Beverley Ingleton’s busy schedule to learn more about her role as PA to the Deputy and Assistant Head (Pastoral), as well as Pastoral Support & Safeguarding Administrator.
In January, Bev will celebrate an impressive eight years at Bancroft’s. Reflecting on her time here, she explained how her role has evolved. Initially, Bev worked as a PA to the Deputy Head, and three Assistant Heads, Academic, Pastoral, and Co-curricular, but as each department expanded and specialised, her focus shifted exclusively to pastoral care.
I treat each pupil as if they’re my own, how I would like my child to be treated.
We asked Bev to describe her role and typical day-to-day activities.
“If the pupils come into the Pastoral Office, I am their first point of contact, so I sit and talk to children and triage what their needs are and where they need to go, such as the nurse, their House Mistress/Master, or whether they need to talk to senior members of the pastoral team.
Quite often, it’s just about calming them down, having a chat, and seeing how they feel. It’s important that they have that place to come to, which feels like a safe place for them.”
Bev explained how she supports pupils when they are upset, using sensory toys and colouring books to help them calm down. This approach allows pupils to regain composure and often return to class feeling more settled.
Bev takes great pride in watching pupils develop and gain confidence throughout their time at Bancroft’s, ultimately leaving with a sense of personal growth. “That,” she says, “is really nice to see.”
“I think it’s really important for pupils to feel safe and comfortable when talking to you.
In addition to her pastoral work, Bev volunteers with Phab, a social club held every Monday at the Prep School. Phab’s mission is to inspire and support young people and adults with and without disabilities, and Bev has been a longstanding volunteer, creating a safe space each week for its members.
She shared the exciting news that Bancroft’s Phab has won the ‘Lord Morris Award’; which they will receive at the House of Commons later this month—a fantastic achievement!
It was a pleasure speaking with you, Bev. Thank you for taking the time to share with us—and for all that you do to make our pupils feel safe and heard.
