PASTORAL CARE
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From the structure of the house tutorial system to the more informal access to the extended pastoral team or prefects, pastoral care is a central pillar of the Sixth Form experience at Denstone. This carefully developed framework ensures that at every stage, each pupil’s development is closely supported within a nurturing and well-balanced environment shaped by both academic and co-curricular life.
The breadth of support available means that pupils are treated as individuals and always have someone they can turn to for guidance, reassurance or advice. This personalised approach is a defining feature of life in the Sixth Form, helping pupils feel known, valued and supported.
Wellbeing is a priority for the College, as a happy and confident pupil is far more likely to thrive, both academically and personally. This underpins everything we do, from the structure of the Shape of the Week to the wide range of co-curricular opportunities available to pupils.
We are delighted to have a dedicated Health & Wellbeing Centre on-site, staffed by a highly experienced medical and counselling team. Pupils are able to access this support throughout their time at the College, ensuring that their wellbeing is supported alongside their academic progress and future pathways and outcomes.
We encourage open communication between pupils, parents and staff so that any concerns can be addressed early. Heads of House take primary responsibility for pupil wellbeing, supported by a wider network of staff. This structure ensures that every pupil benefits from a strong system of pastoral care and support, fully integrated into the wider Sixth Form environment.
The extended pastoral team includes the Deputy Head Pastoral, Deputy Head Pupils, Head of Wellbeing, Heads of House, Heads of School, Head of Boarding, tutors, boarding tutors, the Medical Team and the school counsellor. Together, they create a supportive and enabling environment that complements both academic study and the wider Sixth Form curriculum.
Tutors play a particularly important role, combining pastoral care with detailed academic monitoring. This allows them to develop a deep understanding of each pupil as an individual, supporting both their academic progress and their involvement in co-curricular activities such as sport, arts, and leadership and service.
Through this holistic approach, pupils are encouraged to take part in a wide range of opportunities, helping to build confidence, resilience and independence—qualities that are essential for success in higher education and future careers.
If you have a concern about your child, we encourage you to contact their Tutor in the first instance, or the Head of House (for day pupils) or Head of Boarding (for boarders). For more serious matters, members of the Senior Pastoral team, including the Deputy Head Wellbeing, Deputy Head Pastoral or the Chaplain, are always available to provide additional support.
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