Each subject teacher has a pastoral responsibility to the students in their care and as such is called upon to create an atmosphere of respect within their classroom and to nurture positive relationships both among students and between students and staff members.

While monitoring and guiding a student’s academic progress, the subject teacher is also a key resource in the observation of the how the student relates with his peers and to what extent he appears settled and happy in the school context. Subject teachers are encouraged to inform Year Heads (using the concern slip) and Form Tutors (verbally) of any concerns they may have about a student’s demeanour, relations with other students and attitude to school so that the relevant supports can be put in place for the student.

Subject teachers may also be approached by a student who wishes to discuss a particular concern or issue that is on his mind and as such may be the significant adult for that student in school. This can happen outside of the Form Tutor relationship and is a vital part of the structure of pastoral support available to a student. The above is outlined in greater detail in the Role of Subject Teacher document.