Pastoral Care

The Pastoral Pathway is designed to ensure every child receives the emotional, social and mental health support they need to grow into confident, resilient and happy young people. Grounded in our core value of flourishing, it offers three tiers of care: Universal, Targeted, and Specialist.

Universal Support – For All Pupils
We start with a strong foundation of universal support that every child benefits from. This includes PSHE and wellbeing lessons, daily check-ins, and our school-wide use of the Zones of Regulation to help children name and manage their emotions.

By encouraging emotional literacy, promoting self-awareness, and maintaining consistent routines, we help children understand themselves and one another better. This culture of care supports healthy friendships, builds empathy, and fosters a sense of belonging across the school.

Targeted Support – For Some Pupils
Some children need a little extra support to navigate life’s ups and downs, and we’re here to walk alongside them. Through small-group ELSA interventions, TEAA (Time to Express, Acknowledge and Act) sessions, and social skills groups, we create safe, nurturing spaces for pupils to explore their feelings and build confidence.

These sessions give children the tools to express themselves, develop their voice, and strengthen positive peer relationships in a supportive environment.

Specialist Support – For Individual Needs
For pupils who may be facing more complex emotional or mental health challenges, we offer more specialised care. This might include 1:1 ELSA sessions, counselling or psychotherapy with one of our trainee therapists, or collaboration with external professionals.

This tier ensures that children with individual needs are met with compassion, expertise and a personalised approach. Every child’s story matters, and we work closely with families to provide the right support at the right time.

A Culture of Compassion and Connection
What makes the Pastoral Pathway so powerful is the way it permeates the whole school culture. It’s not just about formal interventions — it’s about the small, daily moments of kindness and connection. Whether it’s a teacher noticing a child who’s feeling anxious, a quiet check-in during break time, or celebrating the progress a child has made in expressing their emotions — it all matters.

At St John’s, pastoral care isn’t an add-on. It’s who we are. And we will continue to grow our commitment to supporting every child to flourish, both in and beyond the classroom.

If you ever have questions, concerns, or feel your child may benefit from additional support, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our doors are always open, and we are here to help.

Lisa Duncan
Designated Safeguarding and Pastoral Lead

To learn more how we create a positive, inclusive, and respectful environment at St John's please visit our Health & Wellbeing page.