Pastoral Care at Winchester House
At Winchester House, pastoral care is at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to fostering a warm, supportive community where every child is known personally, valued for who they are, and encouraged to develop confidence and resilience. Above all, we ensure that every pupil enjoys a safe, happy, and fulfilling experience throughout their time with us.
A Strong Support Network
Our small tutor groups ensure that each child receives individual attention and support, helping them feel heard and understood. Beyond the classroom, our four Houses foster friendships across year groups, creating a strong sense of belonging and school spirit.
We are fortunate to have a dedicated school counsellor, who provides a safe, confidential space for pupils who may need extra support. Pupils can be recommended for sessions by staff or parents if they would benefit from discussing any concerns.
Our school nurse, plays a key role in our pastoral team, offering daily wellbeing support and medical assistance. She is also one of our Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs), ensuring the safety and welfare of all pupils.
Visible and Accessible Support
To make sure every child knows where to turn when they need guidance, our Circle of Support is displayed throughout the school, highlighting the various people, opportunities, and resources available for help.
For our younger pupils, Buddy Benches in the playground provide a simple but effective way to signal when they’d like to join in a game but might feel a little shy. Both staff and children keep a caring eye on the benches, ensuring that no one ever feels left out.
Building Confidence for the Future
At Winchester House, we believe pastoral care is the foundation for every child’s success. By creating a nurturing and inclusive environment, we help pupils develop the resilience, empathy, and confidence they need to embrace their future – both academically and personally.
Interim DSL Mrs Ruth Howell: Ruth.Howell@winchester-house.org