From the start of their time at the College, boys are assigned to one of six Houses deriving their names from Brothers of the Sacred Heart Schools in the USA: Charles, Guertin, Joseph, Martin, McClancy or Stanislaus for the whole of their time here. In that way we hope to provide continuity both of academic guidance and pastoral care. The boys will develop a loyalty to their respective Houses. They will compete against each other in sport, music and other activities and, in time, will take on roles in the leadership of younger boys.
The Pastoral Programme
This takes place in two periods per week, when tutors deliver a structured programme to address in depth all manner of academic, personal, social, spiritual and other issues . This programme will also require students to remain abreast of current news and affairs in order to broaden their understanding of the world and widen their general knowledge. The programme for each year group is tailored to suit its educational needs, address social issues pertinent to their ages and prepare for specific elements in the daily operation of the school; for instance, how to approach study at examination times. Different stages in the student's education as he progresses through the Senior School will also be managed: language choices at the end of Form 1; the choice of GCSE subjects in Form 3; careers research in Form 5; and university application in Form 6, to name but a few. The programme is always capable of being adapted to respond to the particular and changing needs of the year groups as issues arise, whether these are spiritual, moral, social, cultural, emotional or intellectual.
The Careers Department
The Head of Careers maintains individual contact with all students from Form 3 providing appropriate guidance on subject choices, University courses and Career opportunities.
The Ministry Team
The particular role of the Ministry Team is to provide for the spiritual and moral development of the whole College community through the celebration of the sacraments, the organisation of retreats, the mentoring younger students, charitable service including the sponsorship and support of two Zambian schools, and to advise on the personal welfare of students. Mass is celebrated regularly throughout the year, taking recognizance of feast days falling in term time. The sacrament of Reconciliation is administered by visiting priests.
The College Counsellor
The Counsellor is available to all pupils and their parents to offer advice and support when particular (sometimes personal) problems arise in the school environment. Our professionally trained counsellor also supports the pastoral care offered by House Heads, tutors and the Ministry Team.
College Nurse
To complete the essential staff who look after the welfare of each student there is a well qualified, full time Nursing Team.
