Pastoral Care

Outstanding Pastoral Care at Dean Close Pre-Prep School 

At Dean Close Pre-Prep School, we know that happy, joy-filled children learn best.
This understanding drives our commitment to outstanding pastoral care. For children aged 2-7 years, these early years are crucial for emotional, social, and moral development alongside academic growth. By prioritising well-being, we create a joyful, inclusive environment where every child flourishes, embracing our core values of Love, Courage, and Contribution. 

A Culture of LOVE 

Love is at the heart of our ethos, setting us apart as a family-oriented community that promotes kindness, respect, and compassion. Small class sizes and meaningful interactions enable staff to build strong relationships with every child, ensuring they feel valued and understood. This supportive environment lays the foundation for emotional growth, confidence, and resilience. 

Holistic Well-Being 

Our pastoral care addresses emotional adaptability, social skills, and moral understanding. Activities, assemblies, and daily celebrations highlight our values, with rewards such as certificates and the sort-after Head Teacher’s Gold Sticker. Training in Nurture, Emotional Literacy Support Assistance (ELSA), and Mental Health equips staff to provide expert support, helping children build emotional literacy, form positive relationships, and overcome challenges. 

Tailored Support for Every Child 

Recognising every child’s uniqueness, we tailor support to individual needs. Whether easing transitions or building confidence, our open-door policy ensures strong communication with families. This partnership creates a collaborative environment where children excel. 

Building COURAGE and Resilience 

We nurture confidence and resilience through our value-driven curriculum. Activities like Show and Tell, and the Head’s Weekly Challenges encourage children to embrace effort, celebrate achievements, and cultivate a love for learning. 

CONTRIBUTION Beyond the Classroom 

Pastoral care extends to every aspect of school life. Buddy systems, Year 8 mentors, and collaborations with Prep school pupils create a nurturing community where older children inspire and guide younger ones, cultivating belonging and mutual respect. 

A Collaborative Effort 

Outstanding pastoral care at Dean Close Pre-Prep is a team effort. Teachers, teaching assistants, support staff, and parents work together to prioritise each child’s well-being. Every interaction, from morning drop-offs to pick-ups, reinforces the vibrant community spirit that makes our school special.