Student Support and Counselling
Support at Churston goes well beyond the classroom. Whatever a student is going through, we want them to know they don't have to face it alone.
Pastoral care that's proactive, not just reactive
We don't wait for problems to escalate before we act. At Churston, we actively work to create the conditions where students feel safe enough to speak up - and confident enough to ask for help. That means building trust from day one: through form tutors who check in regularly, a culture of kindness that runs through every part of school life, and specialist support available to all students when they need it. Struggling is not a sign of weakness.
Asking for help is exactly what we want our students to do.
How we support you
Counselling services that are professional, confidential, and accessible.
Churston has a trained, qualified school counsellor available to students across the year groups. Sessions are confidential, relaxed, and completely free from judgement. Students can self-refer, and referrals can also be made by tutors or parents.
Students supporting students with peer support
Some of the best support comes from people who understand exactly what you're going through. Our peer support networks are student-led and provide a safe, trusted space outside of formal structures. Knowing a fellow student has your back can make all the difference.
Using external referrals to get you to the right help
Where a student needs specialist support beyond what we provide in-school, we work with a range of trusted external agencies and professionals. We coordinate those referrals carefully and keep families informed every step of the way.
Getting help is straightforward
Students can refer themselves for support - simply speak to a tutor, a Head of Year, or approach the wellbeing team directly. Referrals can also be made by a parent or by a member of staff who has a concern. Nobody needs to navigate this alone, and nobody needs permission to ask for help.
If you're worried, please tell us
You know your child best. If something doesn't feel right - at home or at school - please contact us. You can reach us through the parent portal or by calling 01803 842289. We take every concern seriously and respond quickly, because early conversations make the biggest difference.
