From the first moment we meet a pupil, our main priority is to ensure that they settle into school happily and feel valued. We want to know about all their interests and passions, but also if they have any concerns or nervousness about being at school. To enable this, we place great value on the relationships we build with parents; these positive interactions mean that we work collaboratively to ensure each pupil is getting the individual support and guidance they need. We encourage parents and pupils to talk to us, safe in the knowledge that our staff are both approachable and focused on the happiness and wellbeing of each and every one of our pupils.
Our approach to pastoral care is founded in respect, trust and attentiveness. These values lay the foundations for a community full of happiness and support, between pupils, as well as pupils and staff.
Be well, do well
We recognise that the happier our pupils are, both mentally and physically, the better their outcomes will be. And so, our all-important job as a school is to keep our pupils happy and healthy at all times. And if they’re not, we have a team who work with individuals to give the support they need at any one time.
Our nurturing approach encourages pupils to gain a sense of their own worth and promotes emotional well-being. We help them to build the courage and resilience required to realise their full potential.
We encourage parents and pupils to talk to us, with awareness of the pastoral investment we have in every individual at Rye.
Our small form groups
Small form groups mean each pupil always has a single point of contact and receives individual care from their tutor on a daily basis. Our girls find the support from both fellow pupils in the form group, and their tutor, invaluable in building friendships, exploring who they want to be, and gaining confidence as they move through our school.
The house system
Every pupil and member of staff belongs to one of the houses in our house system. One of the key benefits of the house system is that pupils develop strong friendships with peers from right across the school. This gives a wonderful sense of community and support and means that pupils always know a familiar face around school.
Our Lay Chaplain
We also benefit from having a Lay Chaplain, Mrs Fran Walsh, who works with our pupils. Fran joined us in September 2020 with a wealth of experience in youth work and school chaplaincy. Teaching the values of respect, tolerance, and understanding, our pupils are reminded of the beliefs that enable them to work together as a community.
Fran has created a warming Chaplaincy Room within our school which serves a multitude of purposes, but most importantly it is a place of welcome and friendship for us all to share faith and fellowship together.
“There is a wonderful sense of community, personalised academic support, and strong school traditions.”
