The principles of pastoral care in schools-‘A whole-school approach to implementation’ |13 July 2011

What does this principle mean?

A whole-school approach to implementation means that everyone in the school community has an important role to play in ensuring that we have an effective pastoral care system working in our schools.

The school community refers not only to the students and staff who come to school everyday, but also to parents, school councils, the local community, and service providers at the district, regional, and national levels. 

Why the ‘whole-school’ approach?

• The development and well-being of our children concern all of us, directly or indirectly, now or in the future.

• As all parents and teachers know, educating and supporting our children is a challenging task.  Everybody being on board working together will give us the best chance of making a positive difference in the lives of our children.

• It allows each member of the school community to participate actively in the life of the school and hence, feel a sense of ownership.

• It provides a network of support for all concerned.

The key point to this approach is teamwork with each person doing his or her part.  In Amber Harding’s words, “contrary to popular belief, there most certainly is an "I" in "team."  It is the same "I" that appears three times in "responsibility."”

How does this principle work in schools?

There are several structures at school level which promote the whole-school approach:

• The Whole-School Behaviour Management Policy and Student Code of Conduct.  Everyone has a role in promoting good behaviour and addressing misbehaviour.  The roles and responsibilities of school management, teachers, parents, and students are clearly stated.

•  The Special Needs Support Team and Disciplinary Committee ensure that schools use a team approach in catering for students’ needs.

• Student Associations and School Management and Student Forum give students a voice and encourage consultations on issues of concern to them.

• School Councils give members of local communities the opportunity to join with school leaders in managing and supporting schools.

  Next time, we will focus on the principle: ‘Empowerment of teachers ’.