Pastoral care | Woldingham School

Woldingham is committed to being a school where pastoral care is at the heart of everything we do. We understand that a student who feels known, nurtured and supported as an individual will thrive emotionally and socially, as well as academically, in our increasingly fast-paced world.

Wellbeing

We want each of our students to thrive as an individual, reaching their goals through a balanced, healthy and mindful approach. Promoting a well-rounded, healthy lifestyle and positive mental health is at the heart of Woldingham. Students are encouraged to work hard and play hard. Our approach is that a busy student is a happy student.

We have a holistic approach to health and wellbeing. This is supported in lessons, extra-curricular activities and as part of a supportive and nurturing environment.

Woldingham’s wellbeing programme comprises timetabled PSHE lessons, health education and our bespoke THRIVE programme. This runs alongside students’ academic lessons, extra-curricular activities and opportunities to attend age-appropriate lectures and workshops on a variety of topics to add breadth to, and personalise, their own wellbeing journey at Woldingham.

Each student is encouraged to recognise her individual wellbeing and develop this through academic lessons, extra-curricular activities, leadership and coaching opportunities. As well as covering the statutory material expected, we utilise Woldingham’s extensive facilities and experienced staff to ensure each student flourishes in her own unique way.

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Safeguarding

Safeguarding is a top priority at Woldingham, underpinned by our Safeguarding Policy. While safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, this area of school life is overseen by Miss Taryn Bennett, Woldingham’s Designated Safeguarding Lead. She is supported by a team of deputy safeguarding staff who meet regularly to provide guidance and assurance. Oversight and monitoring of the implementation of the school’s Safeguarding Policy rests with three governors - Judge Ifey Munonyedi, Mrs Julia Connor and Mr Nick Waite - who are the designated members of the Board of Governors for safeguarding. They can be contacted through the school office.

All staff receive regular training throughout the year to keep up to date with best practice and in term time parents receive weekly updates on a wide range of safeguarding and wellbeing issues.

There are extensive systems and practices in place to identify issues and support students. We have a 24-hour nurse-led health centre and counselling teams to provide additional expertise and support to our pastoral team of teaching and residential staff.

The Hub

The Hub, Woldingham’s wellbeing centre, opened in September 2025 and brings together all aspects of student support under one welcoming roof. Open throughout the school day, with staff always on hand to provide guidance and care, The Hub is where our students can seek pastoral or learning support; a quiet place to work; or simply a moment of calm. 

The Hub offers a variety of spaces tailored to suit every individual. The sensory and wellbeing room, Lumina, has been designed to provide a peaceful sanctuary for students who need a break from the busy rhythms of school life. Quiet work breakout spaces offer a comfortable environment for focus and reflection, while private rooms for coaching and counselling ensure that confidential support remains easily accessible.

Following the introduction of timetabled wellbeing lessons more than two years ago, The Hub further embodies Woldingham’s belief that true success comes not only from academic achievement but also from nurturing confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of wellbeing.