Pastoral Care at Kirkham Grammar School
Pastoral care is central to life at Kirkham Grammar School. We believe pupils thrive academically and personally when they feel safe, supported, and valued. Our pastoral system ensures that every pupil has access to guidance, encouragement, and a network of staff dedicated to their wellbeing.
Pastoral Structure
Our pastoral care is tailored to each stage of education:
- Lower School (Key Stage 3, ages 11–14)
- Middle School (Key Stage 4, ages 14–16, GCSEs)
- Sixth Form (Key Stage 5, ages 16–18, A Levels)
Transitions between stages are carefully managed with induction programmes and ongoing guidance, ensuring pupils feel supported as they progress.
Pupils are encouraged to participate in form groups, clubs, societies, and the house system, which brings together pupils from all year groups and fosters a strong sense of community. Inter-house competitions, such as the Whitby Cup, provide fun opportunities to engage and build teamwork skills.
Pastoral Team
Every pupil is supported by a team of staff dedicated to their welfare:
- Senior Leadership Team: Each year group is assigned a member of the SLT.
- Heads of Year & Form Tutors: Provide daily guidance and support.
- Head of Boarding (Pastoral): Supports boarders.
Many staff are trained in Mental Health First Aid to recognise early signs of difficulty and provide appropriate support. The pastoral team works closely with parents to ensure pupils receive the guidance they need, both academically and personally.
Medical & Health Support
The KGS Medical Centre is a key part of our pastoral care system. Services include:
- First Aid and health advice for all pupils
- Administration of prescribed medications (asthma inhalers, insulin, epipens, etc.)
- Care plans for pupils with allergies or medical conditions
- Emotional support through listening and guidance
Pupils can also access an Independent Listener for confidential support. The medical centre works closely with the pastoral team to address concerns promptly and ensure pupils’ wellbeing.
Contact our pastoral team:
n.taylor@kirkhamgrammar.co.uk
01772 688114 (Monday–Friday, 9:00 am–4:00 pm)
For immediate medical concerns, contact your local NHS service or call 111.
External Wellbeing Resources
KGS encourages parents and pupils to access a range of external wellbeing resources alongside our internal pastoral support materials, which include guidance on managing emotions, anger, and online safety. Recommended external resources:
- Headspace – guided meditation, mindfulness, and mental health resources
- Calm – meditation and sleep app
- Smiling Mind – mindfulness resources for young people
- Down Dog – yoga, meditation, and fitness for students
- Young Minds – advice and support for children and adolescents
- NHS Every Mind Matters – tips for mental wellbeing
- Childline – guidance and support for children
- Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families – advice for supporting children’s mental health
Parents can access internal pastoral resources via the school, which cover emotional wellbeing, coping strategies, and guidance for supporting children at home.