Prep School pastoral care

A multi-faceted approach
to pastoral care

Pastoral care in the Prep School

Pastoral care in the Preparatory School is grounded in strong relationships, with each boy known, supported and guided by caring teachers who place wellbeing at the centre of daily school life.

Within Churchie’s dedicated primary setting, boys are nurtured in a safe, values-rich environment through a coordinated approach involving class teachers, the house system and specialist support, helping them grow socially, emotionally and spiritually with confidence.

Preparatory School teacher with students

The heart of teaching

At the heart of teaching in the Preparatory School is the relationship between teacher and student. Teachers take the time to know each boy well including his strengths, interests and challenges, and use that understanding to guide, support and extend him throughout the academic year. Grounded in trust, care and high expectations, these relationships ensure every boy feels known and valued, developing the confidence, character and capability they need to thrive at school and beyond.

House structure

Every boy in the Preparatory School belongs to one of four houses, Angles, Danes, Jutes or Saxons, creating a strong sense of identity, connection and belonging from Reception (Prep) to Year 6.

Through the vertical house system, boys in Years 3 to 6 meet with dedicated housemasters, who work alongside classroom teachers to support their personal, spiritual and service development.

House activities and interhouse events give boys meaningful opportunities for mentorship, leadership and friendship across year levels, while also building teamwork, confidence and respect for healthy competition.

Angles

Danes

Jutes

Saxons

Outdoor Education

The Outdoor Education programme for boys in Years 3 to 6 plays an important role in personal growth, using challenge, reflection and shared experience to build confidence and character.

Through a carefully sequenced programme, boys develop independence, resilience, teamwork and self-belief as they step beyond familiar routines and learn to persevere.

In Year 6, the Canberra experience provides a fitting culmination, encouraging maturity, responsibility and a deeper sense of readiness as boys prepare for the transition into the Senior School.

Social and emotional development

Social and emotional development is an important part of life in the Preparatory School, underpinning wellbeing, relationships and learning.

Tools such as Switch4Schools give boys a shared language for recognising and expressing how they feel, while regular circle time and wellbeing programmes led by housemasters during house meetings create safe, supportive opportunities for reflection, connection and growth.

Through these intentional practices, boys develop emotional awareness, empathy and resilience, equipping them to build strong relationships and navigate their school years with confidence.