Pastoral Care

At Scotch Oakburn College, we believe every student needs and deserves individual care.

Effective pastoral care in a school setting requires a close, supportive community committed to nurturing and developing the social and personal competencies of all within it.

Teachers are mindful of nurturing the full range of competencies in their teaching – academic, social and personal – and developments in all these areas are regularly assessed and reported to parents.

The particular approaches to the provision of pastoral care will vary depending upon the age of students. In the Junior School, the individual classroom teacher assumes great importance in knowing and understanding each child in his or her care. In the Senior School, the House Head assumes responsibility for the on-going welfare of students within their House.

In addition, student counsellors and the Chaplain play important roles, providing specialist guidance in personal matters. A strong peer support programme is also a feature at both the Junior School and Senior School.

We believe our students have an equal right to learn, work and play, while being treated with respect and dignity. We encourage them to appreciate their own worth, and that of others, so that each can develop to his or her potential.

We promote respect and care for the environment, as well as the development of a deepening sense of care for others, especially those who are disadvantaged.

As our young people develop, we seek to build their understandings so that they can make wise life choices.

Personal Development classes and programmes, chapel services and guest speakers are all integral to the development of these skills and values, as are the relationships with teachers.

Throughout, the emphasis is on positive relationships between school, students, staff and families is vital in the interests of the wellbeing of our young people.