The Gateway School
Pastoral Vision
Pastoral care helps to create a safe and nurturing environment to support students to thrive both academically and personally.
Our pastoral vision is to break down barriers to learning, which will in turn increase attendance, engagement, improve emotional literacy, and reduce incidents of challenging behaviour.
We strive to develop personal growth and self-awareness for individuals through improving mental health and wellbeing, building resilience and supporting behaviour management linked to the school’s core values:
- Resilience
- Communication
- Going beyond borders
- Reflection
- Balance
- Independence
Emotional and Mental Health Support
Individuals have access to a range of strategies and assistance to encourage positive changes in mental health and emotional well-being. As part of our pastoral offer, we have access to a play therapist and 1:1 pupil support sessions delivered by Emotional Literacy Support Assistants (ELSA).
Mental health first-aiders form part of the pastoral team to ensure identification of early signs of mental health concerns, and we have access to a wide range of services outside of education to provide additional support when needed.
Social Support
Students are given structured opportunities to develop social skills, interact, and work together in small groups where targeted interventions are delivered around the three key areas of pastoral support and six core values.
Behavioural Support
Individuals accessing pastoral support are encouraged to develop a Pastoral Support Plan (PSP) with one of the team to gain a greater understanding of triggers, warning signs, and support mechanisms, to encourage positive behaviour. Restorative practices are used to help students reflect on their actions and repair relationships.