Pastoral Care - A firm foundation for life

At Berkhampstead we have a very strong pastoral care system. Pupils are split into form classes and have contact with their form teachers at least twice a day. The size of the school lends itself to lots of informal contact with all teachers and there is a friendly atmosphere where staff are easily approachable.  Children and staff genuinely like and respect one another.

Friendships form across age groups as pupils play together.

Lunchtimes offer a great opportunity to interact with friends and to enjoy home-cooked food, freshly prepared in our kitchens.  We operate a 'family-dining' system, where pupils and staff serve each other at the table and have the opportunity to chat about their day.

Any pastoral concerns from pupils, staff or parents are dealt with by the Form Teacher. Issues are usually dealt with quickly and informally but are passed on, when necessary, to the Head of Department or the Headmaster. 

Our Behavioural Policy uses the principle of, 'Do as you would be done by...' Children hear this message reinforced often and assemblies and PSHE lessons support this.  

Its simple message is easily understood by the very youngest and applicable for life.  The book from which we took our inspiration is available in each library and can be viewed here.

Praise is a big part of the Berkhampstead way of life and children receive rewards for good behaviour or excellent effort in the form of 'Bonus points' which are earned for the House and also count towards Merit badges, issued when certain totals are achieved. For really special work, above a child's usual standard, Commendation certificates are awarded in assembly.

 Each class does an assembly and this gives children a chance to work together, to perform and be creative.  As they get older, children increasingly write sketches and material for assemblies.  Parents are welcome to attend and watch their child on stage.   Assembly pictures.

Sparkle Statements and stickers are eagerly received for good effort in Pre-Prep.  The children take genuine pleasure in seeing their friends rewarded.

The House System

In the Prep Department, all rewards count towards an Inter-House Competition.  Pupils develop an affinity with their Houses and it allows them to interact and develop friendships with others outside their teaching groups and Forms.  

Inter-House Sports, Art and Music Competitions are keenly contested, as is the Pancake Challenge, which sees pupils running frantically around the playground, pausing to toss pancakes at pre-determined points, whilst being cheered on by their Houses.  Pancakes are coloured to represent each House and the competition is fierce!  Click for pictures.