At Springboard, pastoral care is at the heart of everything we do. We recognise that every student brings their own story, and our job is to meet them exactly where they are — with warmth, patience, and consistency.

Our pastoral approach is built on trusting relationships and attuned, responsive support. For many of our students, school has not always felt safe or predictable. We work to rebuild that trust — gently, steadily, and always at the young person's pace.

 

What Pastoral Support Looks Like

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• One-to-One Sessions
  Regular, protected time with a trusted adult where students can talk, reflect, or simply be. These sessions are relationship-led and guided by what the student needs on the day — whether that’s conversation, creative expression, or just quiet connection.

• Safe Spaces
  We provide low-arousal, nurturing environments where students can regulate their nervous systems and recover from dysregulation. These spaces are available throughout the day and are staffed by emotionally available adults.

• Trauma Informed Practice
  Our staff use trauma-informed relational approaches including Wondering, Imagining, Noticing and Empathy (WINE) and Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity and Empathy (PACE) to build safety and support emotional regulation.

• Personalised Support Plans
  We collaborate with students, families, and professionals to create support plans that reflect each young person’s needs, strengths, and goals. These plans are dynamic and reviewed regularly.

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Why It Matters

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​We know that behaviour is communication. When students feel dysregulated, we respond with curiosity, not punishment. When they push adults away, we remain present. We understand that behind every big feeling is an unmet need — and that relational safety is the first step to emotional growth.

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Through consistent pastoral support, students begin to feel safer in themselves and in their relationships. Over time, this lays the foundation for re-engagement in learning, improved self-regulation, and a stronger sense of identity and belonging.