Pastoral Support Officer – Independent Secondary School – Chester

Pastoral Support Officer Independent Secondary School Chester

Start Date: As soon as possible
Contract: Full-time Permanent
Salary: Paid to scale

School Information

This well-established co-educational independent secondary school in Chester educates students aged 1118 and is known for its strong academic results nurturing pastoral culture and holistic approach to education. The school combines traditional values with modern educational practices creating an environment where students are encouraged to be ambitious compassionate and resilient.

Small class sizes allow for strong relationships between staff and students. Behaviour is exemplary and the school community is built on respect integrity and collaboration. Facilities include modern learning spaces dedicated Sixth Form study areas specialist performing arts studios and well-resourced pastoral offices. The leadership team places student wellbeing at the heart of the schools ethos and invests significantly in safeguarding and pastoral structures.

As part of its commitment to supporting the whole child the school is seeking an experienced and empathetic Pastoral Support Officer to join its pastoral care team.

Role Overview

The Pastoral Support Officer will work closely with Heads of Year tutors and safeguarding leads to provide targeted support for students who require additional guidance. This role is both preventative and responsive focusing on early intervention and long-term student development.

Key responsibilities include:

• Providing one-to-one and small-group mentoring for students

• Supporting behaviour management and restorative practice

• Identifying early signs of emotional social or behavioural concerns

• Working closely with families to build strong homeschool partnerships

• Supporting attendance and engagement initiatives

• Contributing to behaviour support plans and intervention programmes

• Maintaining accurate safeguarding and pastoral records

• Supporting transition processes for vulnerable students

• Assisting with lunchtime and after-school supervision where required

• Collaborating with external support agencies when appropriate

The role requires a calm professional approach and a genuine commitment to student welfare.

Pastoral Team Information

The Pastoral Support Officer will be part of a structured team including Heads of Year the Designated Safeguarding Lead counsellors and SEN staff. Regular meetings ensure consistency in approach and collaborative problem-solving. The school encourages CPD in areas such as safeguarding SEMH and trauma-informed practice.

Candidate Requirements

• Experience working with young people in pastoral mentoring or youth work settings

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

• Ability to build trust and rapport with students and families

• Understanding of safeguarding and child protection principles

• Resilience and emotional intelligence

• Strong organisational and record-keeping skills

• Commitment to promoting positive behaviour and wellbeing

Application

To apply please send your CV as soon as possible.