Mike Francis, Kaz Adelsberg, Paul Deakin, Jan Duckworth, Mark McGee, and Paul O’Kane are the six full-time Pastoral Support Mentors who are part of the Pastoral Support Team.

Previously known as Learning Mentors, the Pastoral Support Mentors’ aim is to support the School in reducing barriers to learning, raising student attainment, improving attendance and punctuality and reducing exclusions. Pastoral Support Mentors work with students in a non-judgemental way by establishing trust, building positive relationships, supporting and listening. We are here to support any student in need by working with them through formal one-to-one or group sessions and also informal drop-in and club activities.

We have our own area to work in. Situated behind the Library, this is a safe, friendly environment where students can drop in for an informal chat during break or lunchtime; on these occasions they can relax, join in activities and games and meet friends. Students can also talk to us about any issues they are concerned about and arrange an individual appointment if necessary.

Students can choose to see us if they are experiencing any problems or difficulties. These could be school, home or socially based. We support students and help them to develop strategies to improve their situation and move forward.
Staff and parents can also refer a student to us if they think we can help. Possible reasons for referral include:
• students who are underachieving.
• students who are consistently or intermittently absent or late.
• students with disruptive behaviour or a negative attitude.
• students at risk of exclusion.
• students who lack motivation or confidence or have low self-esteem.
• students with social/family ‘difficulties’.

If you think we can help your child, then get in touch with us. Just telephone the school and ask to speak to a Pastoral Support Mentor.

We organise and facilitate regular motivational projects such as Video & Film Production, Art, Healthy Lifestyles and the Environment Project. We often work in conjunction with outside agencies. Recently these have included Liverpool Football Club, Merseytravel, The Bluecoat Gallery, First Take Video Company and Merseyside Police.

As a reward for being committed to the work we do, students who regularly attend our projects and fully participate may be invited to take part in outside school activities and residential courses.
From these courses students:

• gain increased self-confidence
• meet new people
• learn new life, personal & social skills
• help each other in team-building experiences

By popular demand our Social Activities continue this year. Students have the opportunity to participate in fun activities including pool, IT, soccer and cricket coaching, after school. Our aim is to develop teamwork and problem solving skills in a friendly, supportive environment.

The Pastoral Support Mentors also organise and facilitate a school student council. Its aim is to encourage students to actively participate in improving the school for everyone involved.
The School Council is made up of representatives from each Year. Each Year has up to four representatives. The reps canvass student opinions, liaise with staff and debate issues of concern to the school community.

The Pastoral Support Mentors are an established part of the school community. We will continue to work with students individually, set up activities and develop further projects. To speak to one of our team you can telephone on 0151 526 2600 ext.152