Health and Wellbeing
Young people learn best when they are well, safe and happy. Looking after every pupil is the first job of everyone in the school.
Health Centre
Our health centre is staffed by qualified nurses around the clock in term time, with a sick bay for boarders who need rest and care. Nurses manage medicines, minor injuries, illnesses and health education.
School Doctor
Boarders are registered with the school's GP practice, which holds regular surgeries at school. The team works closely with NHS services, dentists, opticians and hospital departments in Cheltenham.
Counselling
An independent, qualified counsellor is available to any pupil in confidence. Pupils can refer themselves or be referred by staff or parents.
Tutors
Every pupil has a personal tutor who meets them regularly, follows their progress and wellbeing, and is the main link with home for day pupils.
Houseparents
For boarders, houseparents provide day-to-day care and are always the first port of call for families.
Peer Support
Trained Sixth Form peer mentors and wellbeing ambassadors offer younger pupils a friendly ear and help spot problems early.
Wellbeing in the Curriculum
Personal, social, health and economic education (PSHE), and relationships, sex and health education (RSHE), are taught throughout the school. Topics range from sleep, nutrition and exercise to online safety, healthy relationships, managing stress and money.
Mindfulness, a strong sports and activities programme and a culture of talking openly about mental health all help pupils build the resilience to cope with life's ups and downs.
Safeguarding
The safety and welfare of every pupil is our highest priority. All staff and volunteers are safely recruited and vetted, and receive regular safeguarding training. Our Designated Safeguarding Lead and deputies are senior members of staff, and a named governor oversees safeguarding.
Pupils know whom to talk to if they are worried, including staff, the independent listener for boarders and outside helplines displayed around the school.
Safeguarding at The Great Duke