Caring For You
At Charterhouse, we believe that true education reaches far beyond the classroom. Our outstanding approach to holistic pastoral care ensures that every pupil is known, valued and supported, not only in their academic journey, but in every aspect of their personal development.
This deep, individualised care is central to School life. It underpins a culture of trust, kindness and respect, where pupils feel safe to be themselves and confident to grow.
Pastoral care at Charterhouse is not a department. It is a whole-school commitment, woven into every interaction and every day. We know that when pupils feel supported and understood, they are free to thrive – not just at school, but for life.
We work closely with families and house communities to create a strong sense of belonging, and to ensure that each young person is encouraged to flourish – emotionally, socially and academically.
From House staff to tutors, Wellbeing to pupil voice, each plays a vital part in life at Charterhouse, with a distinct yet connected role in nurturing pupils’ personal growth and sense of agency.
House Staff
At Charterhouse, pastoral care begins with a strong sense of home. Each of our 15 Houses is led by a resident Head of House and their family, creating a warm, familiar environment where pupils are known, supported and encouraged every day through proactive ‘eyes-on’ pastoral care. They are joined by a dedicated team of pastoral staff who also live in House, each committed to guiding pupils through the challenges and triumphs of school life.
The team within each House supports pupils in managing the rhythm of daily life – making sure they are in the right place at the right time, and helping them stay as clean, tidy and organised as any teenager can reasonably be expected to be.
They are also trusted listeners. Whether it’s a quiet word of encouragement or a more serious concern, pupils know there is always someone ready to hear them. If further support is needed, the team ensures a swift connection with the Health Centre, Wellbeing Centre or other appropriate staff.
For parents, too, House staff provide a reassuring point of contact. They offer a clear line of communication and partnership, helping families stay connected to their child’s life at School.
This layered, thoughtful approach to pastoral care creates a culture where every pupil feels supported and empowered to thrive.
Wellbeing
At Charterhouse, pastoral care is at the heart of school life. Our Wellbeing programme is a vital layer of support, offering time and space for deeper reflection, open conversation, and meaningful connection. It helps pupils to better understand themselves, their relationships, and the world around them.
Located at the centre of the School, our Wellbeing Centre is a calm, confidential hub offering a wide range of support for both pupils and staff. From mentoring and training to professional counselling, all services are free and delivered by experienced mental health practitioners. From sleep clinics to managing exam anxiety, we provide a huge range of courses which can benefit all pupils.
Pupils are encouraged to bring any concern, large or small. Talking things through in a safe and trusted space — with someone who listens without judgement — can bring real clarity and confidence.
Wellbeing is a core part of our pastoral ethos. The entire School community is supported and educated to help ensure every pupil’s emotional and mental health needs are recognised and met.
The chaplaincy, the medical staff and the counsellors in the Wellbeing Centre are all available so that any pupil can make an appointment to meet and discuss any problems they may have.
| The Team |
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The team is led by the Director of Wellbeing and Inclusion and consists of counsellors, psychotherapists, a mental health nurse, and a Wellbeing Manager. At times, it is necessary to make referrals to other specialists within the School or to external mental health professionals and services. Two members of staff are certified Mental Health First Aid trainers, Clinical Supervisors, and one is also a Suicide First Aid trainer. |
| Confidentiality |
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All Wellbeing services are confidential, though we encourage staff and pupils to develop a support network. However, if a safeguarding matter is raised, it will be necessary for this information to be passed on to the Designated Safeguarding Lead. It is always our intention to inform and work with pupils and staff in such circumstances.
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Personal Tutors
Every pupil is assigned to a personal tutor, who will also be attached to their House. Tutors meet regularly, both 1:1 and with a small group of their tutees, offering thoughtful, individualised support. This regular connection helps each Carthusian feel grounded, confident and ready to make the most of all that Charterhouse offers.
These conversations create the space needed to reflect on progress, set goals, and address any challenges — whether academic, personal or social.
Because tutors build close, trusted relationships over time, they are well-placed to notice changes, celebrate successes and help pupils navigate difficulties. They work closely with House staff and parents, creating a strong circle of care around each young person.
In the busy life of a school, the tutor is a steady presence: someone who knows the pupil well and is always in their corner.
PSHE
Personal, Social, Health & Economic Education (PSHE) is a vital part of life at Charterhouse, supporting both academic and pastoral development. Through a carefully structured, age-appropriate curriculum, pupils explore their role in society—now and in the future.
Our programme is built around three key pillars: Being respectful, Knowing the law; and remaining judgement-free. It reflects our school values and is shaped to be inclusive of all backgrounds, beliefs and abilities.
PSHE is taught weekly in dedicated lessons, but learning extends across the curriculum, in subjects such as TPE, Biology and Computing, and through assemblies, co-curricular activities and visiting speakers.
The course covers three key strands: Health, Relationships and Sex Education (RSE), and Living in the Wider World. In the Under School, these are taught in rotation by specialist staff. In the Sixth Form, the focus shifts towards life after school, with topics such as university applications, student life and careers, often delivered by external experts.
We aim to give every pupil the confidence, values and understanding they need to thrive beyond Charterhouse.
View the PSHE Curriculum Pathway
Pupil Voice & Peer Support
Care at Charterhouse goes beyond the adults. A major advantage of our House system is the fact that each one has pupils from all year groups living together. As such, the pupils themselves play a vital role in supporting one another. House Monitors, appointed by the Head of House, help nurture the well-being of younger pupils. And from their very first days, new pupils are paired with an older peer who helps them settle in, find their rhythm, and feel at home.
Our broad range of Pupil Voice committees ensures that every pupil has the chance to be heard, shaping school life, strengthening the community, and building a culture of respect and responsibility.
