The Pastoral Team

Tutor groups operate within a section of the school – Lower, Middle or Upper School – but they also sit within Divisions. This enables them to be overseen by a Divisional Head, an important pastoral figure. Divisional Heads are experienced teachers and pastoral specialists, who work closely with the Deputy Head Pastoral and their tutor teams to ensure consistency of student experience across the school, and within each section. They are the ultimate problem-solvers, using their knowledge and experience of the school to manage situations which arise between different members of the school community, with the best interests of the child always at the centre of their work.

Divisional Heads also lead assemblies and guide and monitor tutors, providing support and training where necessary. They have offices in or near their section’s common room and are a visible and accessible source of support for students. They are there for the students when they experience difficulties, and equally there to congratulate them when they taste success.

Along with the Deputy Head Boarding and the Head of PSHE, the Divisional Heads are members of the Pastoral Committee, which is chaired by the Deputy Head Pastoral. The Pastoral Committee meets on a weekly basis to address whole-school pastoral issues, consider pastoral strategy, and anticipate pinch points for students across the academic year.

The safeguarding team, comprising the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and six Deputy DSLs, ensures that safeguarding remains the primary focus for all staff at the school. In addition to supporting students with safeguarding concerns, the DSLs work proactively with students and staff to monitor trends, pre-empt issues and provide education and guidance around safe and appropriate behaviour.

The PSHE and Learning Support Departments support student welfare and wellbeing through the provision of outstanding collective and individualised support respectively. PSHE is a timetabled, academic subject here at Sevenoaks, but it is also an important arm of our pastoral provision, responding to current concerns and trends and always focused on supporting students and their parents as they navigate the challenges and complexities of the modern world.

The Health Centre sits at the heart of the school and provides 24/7 care to our day and boarding students. In collaboration with the school GP, physio and counselling team, a dedicated team of Nurses provide medical and mental health support, as well as a calm, safe space for students who need time out to talk, recover or receive support. Our team of five counsellors offers a combination of drop-in and regular sessions, on a one-to-one and confidential basis.