Pastoral
At Tormead, we fundamentally believe that girls can only be successful when they are happy.
That’s why pastoral care is the cornerstone of our provision as we strive to ensure that each and every girl is supported to feel fulfilled, safe and secure within our community.
Our approach to pastoral care focuses upon strong and positive relationships between pupils and staff, as well as an open partnership with parents.
The relatively small size of our school also makes a difference: each girl is visible and well-known as the individual she is.
Tony Breslin, Deputy Head (Pastoral)“Pastoral care is at the heart of what we do. Understanding the individual in front of us, not as the grade she scores but as the whole person who achieves, fails, makes mistakes, tries again, seeks support, laughs, cries and, most importantly, enjoys school, is an essential part of being part of the Tormead community.
The Sixth Form team – comprising of the Head of Sixth Form and the Head of University Admissions, along with an experienced group of Sixth Form Tutors – is responsible for the welfare of the girls and are available before, during and after school. We operate an open-door policy and the team have a great deal of experience in working with Sixth Formers. Every girl benefits from regular one-to-one chats with the Sixth Form team to discuss any matters of concern.
Verity Vinen, School CounsellorMy sessions empower the individual to take responsibility and exercise their autonomy in finding their own internal wisdom. I help students see they have choices and have the capacity to make wise decisions. Creating an ‘in here’ safe space is also important and the counselling room offers time to press ‘pause’.
Sixth Sense is a programme of talks and workshops to help prepare the girls for life beyond Tormead. This is mainly delivered by Tormead staff but occasionally outside speakers are invited to contribute. This initiative encourages discussions relating to mental health and topics such as sexuality and identity. It is a popular forum for inspiring debate beyond the classroom.
Horizons is a weekly lecture series delivered by a wide range of outside speakers. The line-up changes each year but in recent sessions we have had a speaker who discussed how he overcame a serious drug addiction, another told of his experiences since being paralysed from the chest down and another outlined her life after severe facial burns. These talks allow the girls to observe resilience and perseverance with the opportunity to ask questions and enhance their empathy and listening skills.
11-16 Years
Our pupils enjoy exceptional educational opportunities within a caring and happy environment.
