Sub-Warden, St Edward's Oxford -Candidate information

PASTORAL CARE & BOARDING

There are many different levels of pastoral support available. Each Housemaster or Housemistress is supported by an Assistant HM, a Resident Tutor and a Matron. Tutors are responsible for a group of six to 10 pupils and oversee both their academic and pastoral lives. The Deputy and Assistant Heads Pastoral, the Health Centre team, the School Counsellors and the Chaplaincy team are all vital members of the pastoral network, which is being further strengthened this year by the appointment of a Director of Wellbeing. Importantly, from day one, pupils are supported by their peers. The new Shells (Year 9 pupils) are mentored in small groups by Lower Sixth pupils. Sixth Formers are trained to offer a Peer Listening service, and the Prefects and Heads of House meet regularly with the Warden, the Sub-Warden and the Deputy Head Pastoral to raise any concerns. CHAPEL The School has a proud Christian heritage rooted in the Oxford Movement. As a modern and inclusive school, today it welcomes pupils and staff of all faiths and none. The historic Chapel is at the heart of the School as a reminder of the importance of the School’s foundation and traditions and of the spiritual dimension in school life. The Chaplain and Assistant Chaplain are part of the pastoral team and are always available to talk through the bigger questions of life with students and staff.

St Edward’s is primarily a boarding school and proud of the happy, friendly atmosphere that comes from a close-knit community where pupils are willing to engage and participate in a range of activities. Mindful of the need to adapt boarding to modern family life, the School’s policy leaves boarders free to go home after Saturday afternoon activities, and they are required to be back in school by 9pm on Sunday evening. Many choose to take advantage of the Teddies Coach service, which brings pupils back to school from central London via Beaconsfield on Sunday evenings. Typically, more than half the boarders choose to stay in school, and there is an extensive programme of entertainment, as well as the opportunity to enjoy Summertown and Oxford on a Sunday. There are 13 boarding houses: some are part of the Quad; others look out on the playing fields. Each has its distinctive character. There are five houses for girls, five for boys and three co-educational houses (with boys from Years 9–11 and a mixed Sixth Form). Each house has a small number of day pupils who are allocated rooms and finish at either 6.30pm or 9pm. St Edward’s understands that pupils are individuals and that not all will choose the same route to pastoral support or guidance when they need it.