Pastoral Care

As a College community, it is our goal to develop positive, resilient students through an exceptional pastoral care programme. Our pastoral care programme through our House system also helps to foster a strong sense of identity, belonging and connection.

Junior School Pastoral Care

The first point of call in the Junior School for pastoral care is the student’s Class Teacher. We encourage communication through the student’s diary or email, while always welcoming opportunities for discussion through interviews. For new students to the College, we are aware this may be a time of increased anxiety so we have in place a strong orientation support system to help students as they find their own special path at Somerset.

Senior School Pastoral Care

The House Tutor is responsible for the wellbeing of all students within their vertical House Group. House Tutors are also the first point of contact for parents. The Tutor knows each of their students intimately and is best placed to deal with issues as they arise. Students and Tutors look to their Head of House to assist with more persistent issues. Heads of House monitor students overall academic progress and their social and emotional development. Heads of House also work with their House Captains to involve students within the House in a range of sporting, academic and cultural competitions throughout the year. 

Our Head of Year 7 works with students daily to assist with their transition to the Senior School. Similarly our Year 11 Coordinator and Year 12 Coordinator assists students in these Senior years, being available to mentor and provide advice throughout the day, to ensure our Seniors are fully supported throughout a challenging but ultimately rewarding time.

The House System

Somerset has a vibrant House system that involves all students at the College. Each student is assigned to a House group - Andrews, Franklin, Laver, Starkey or Veivers. The Houses participate in different cultural, academic and sporting activities throughout the year. There is a wonderful sense of House spirit at Somerset, with the students taking great pride in their ‘tribes’. Each House is steeped in history and various competitions throughout the year ensure that the competitive spirit is kept alive.