PASTORAL CARE & HOUSE SYSTEM

At St Columba’s we place great emphasis on the care and well-being of all of our pupils.  They are all known as individuals; their personal qualities are appreciated, their individual needs are recognised and their progress and attainment monitored throughout their years at School.

In Senior School pastoral care begins with Form Teachers, who establish strong relationships with the pupils.

Pupils are assigned to one of four Houses - Craigmarloch, Duchal, Kilallan and Strathgryffe - and remain in that House throughout their time at school where a supportive relationship is fostered with the Head of House.  Members of the same family will normally belong to the same House.  The House system promotes team spirit amongst pupils and also creates a competitive environment through a range of Inter-House activities.

In Senior VI a sense of responsibility for others is fostered through a regent system.  New pupils are assured of a smooth induction to Senior School by having a senior pupil care for them and act as a role model and mentor.

Heads of House
The Head of House is the first and main point of contact for parents in their dealings with the School.

•     the pastoral care and well being of all pupils in their House
•     curricular support and subject choice
•     careers education and guidance
•     UCAS applications (except Oxbridge)
•     Personal and Social Education
•     parent contact

• SI: individual interviews with parents in October to discuss initial progress   
• SII: advise and administer subject choices in term II 
• SIII: individual interviews with parents in November to discuss progress   
• SIV: advise on subject options during term II and again in August following publication of the SQA results
• SV: advise on subject options during term II and again in August following publication of the SQA results
• SVI: provide continuing advice with careers and higher education, attend Prefects’ motivational weekends