Proactive, compassionate care that builds resilience, healthy habits, and joyful learning.
At Alleyn’s Oakfield, pastoral care is at the heart of school life. We want every child to feel known, valued and encouraged so they can be all they can be. Our approach blends warm, everyday care with a proactive programme that helps pupils build the skills for happy, healthy lives.
Every child known. Class Teachers are the daily point of contact and know each pupil well. They create calm, purposeful classrooms where kindness, courtesy and consideration are expected and modelled.
A listening culture. We use daily form time and class check‑ins to give children space to share, reflect and celebrate. A Worry Box in each classroom and open‑door conversations mean pupils always have somewhere safe to turn.
Values in action. Our 6Cs – Curiosity, Collaboration, Courage, Care, Creativity and Challenge – are woven through lessons, assemblies and clubs. We notice and reward pupils for living these values in their work and relationships. Senior Pupils are given roles and responsibilities so that they feel valued in the community and are coached to be role models to which younger children will aspire.
As part of the Alleyn’s family, Oakfield follows the AEQ, our proactive pastoral programme. AEQ helps children to:
AEQ learning happens in many ways: through classtime and CPSHE, themed assemblies and pupil voice activities, and everyday routines in the classroom and playground.
Your child’s Class Teacher coordinates their pastoral care and is the first port of call for questions or concerns.
A joined‑up team. Senior staff and our Learning Success team work closely with Class Teachers to offer wraparound support. When a pupil would benefit from extra help, we agree tailored strategies with families and, where appropriate, with external professionals.
Many year groups run small nurture groups. Buddy systems and roles for older pupils help everyone feel included and take pride in supporting others.
A strong sense of belonging underpins wellbeing. Our house events, responsibilities and regular assemblies give children chances to lead, serve and celebrate together.
Citizenship, Personal, Social, Health, and Economic education (including relationships and health education) is taught in age‑appropriate ways. We explore topics such as friendships, feelings, diversity, consent and online life. Children learn practical strategies for managing emotions, resolving conflicts and staying safe.
Helpful links for pupils and families:
CEOP Safety Centre: advice and reporting for online safety concerns — https://www.ceop.police.uk
Childline: free, confidential help for young people — https://www.childline.org.uk
Great pastoral care is a partnership. We keep in touch through informal conversations at drop‑off and pick‑up each day, parent meetings or via email directly to the teacher. In Years 2-6 the children's School Planner is a vital communication tool between home and school. We also share guidance and run information sessions to help families support learning and wellbeing at home.
We believe in close and nurturing relationships at Alleyn's Oakfield, where every child is known. We encourage all our pupils to speak up and advocate for themselves, and will often remind the children; "If you’re worried or need a chat, you can speak to your Class Teacher or any trusted adult in school; a friend, buddy, or House Captain. You can use the Worry Box, and we will follow up with you quickly."
There is always someone who will listen.
We’d love to talk about how we care for children at Alleyn’s Oakfield. Please get in touch with the school office or come and see us at an Open Day.