Pastoral Care

Liz Channer - Deputy Head Pastoral

Bancroft’s pastoral system is a tremendous strength of the School. It underpins all that we do, enabling pupils to flourish and make the most of their opportunities. We endeavour to foster a friendly, supportive and caring environment in which each pupil is cherished and nurtured and their individual needs addressed. We aim to make our pastoral care proactive with a focus on wellbeing and the individual. 

The House system lies at the heart of our pastoral care with tutors and house staff being key points of contact for pupils and parents throughout their time at School. On a daily basis, the tutor is the first port of call, fostering the academic, co-curricular and pastoral welfare of each pupil and our Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE) programme is delivered in house groups. The house staff are supported in their role by the Deputy Head, Pastoral, who is also the Designated Lead for Safeguarding and Child Protection matters. 

We recognise that adolescence can be a turbulent time and sometimes a pupil may experience difficulties which require specialist and professional help. Counselling is available in School for those who feel they need it and we will always source help from outside if necessary.  

The senior house staff oversee all house activities and junior house staff have specific responsibility for Thirds to Lower Fourths (Years 7-9); together they lead weekly house assemblies during which teachers and pupils share thoughts, celebrate achievements and perform. Sport, drama, music and spoken English competitions between the four Houses promote a friendly rivalry. Each House celebrates its own identity with events such as their family evenings which help bond parents, pupils and staff. 

Throughout the school year we run several pastoral evenings to which all parents are invited. The format of such evenings may vary to include talks, workshops and discussion groups. Subjects covered have included: academic pressures; digital technology and teens; striking the balance between the academic and the co-curricular; mental wellbeing.

James Barr - Assistant Deputy Head Pastoral

Hear James and Liz discuss the Pastoral System at Bancroft’s in this podcast episode.

Listen here

Paul Dickinson - Head of Lower School

At Bancroft’s, the happiness and wellbeing of our pupils always come first.

Beverley Ingleton - PA to the Deputy and Assistant Head (Pastoral)

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.

Read the full interview