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PASTORAL / WELL-BEING / PSHE
at BC Academy
At BC Academy, the happiness and well-being of our pupils lie at the heart of everything we do. Our commitment goes beyond providing an exceptional all-round education – we strive to ensure that every child feels valued, supported, and encouraged to explore their interests, develop resilience, and thrive as individuals.
How We Nurture Well-Being
Every child is recognised and celebrated for who they are. Our Principal knows each child by name, along with their strengths, challenges, and friendships. Our dedicated staff meet weekly to discuss any concerns, from academic difficulties to social and emotional well-being, ensuring that every pupil receives the support they need.
A Supportive School Structure
Positive relationships are central to our approach to pastoral care. Our school is thoughtfully structured to foster these connections:
House System (Years 3 to 13): Pupils are placed in houses, providing opportunities for interaction across age groups. Older pupils serve as role models for younger ones, fostering mentorship and a sense of belonging. House competitions further strengthen bonds, encouraging teamwork, empathy, and healthy competition.
Dedicated Pastoral Support:
In Years 3 to 6, each child is supported by two key staff members – a Class Teacher and a Houseparent – who work together to provide personalised guidance.
In Years 7 to 13, pupils are assigned a Form Tutor who supports their academic and personal development. Form Tutor groups meet at least three times a week, allowing for close bonds to form. Tutors provide personalised feedback and share insights with Houseparents, ensuring that every child is known and cared for.
Understanding the Individual
At BC Academy, we are guided by the philosophy of educationalist Rita F. Pierson:
"Every child deserves a champion – an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection and insists that they become the best they can possibly be."
Smooth Transitions
We understand that transitioning to a new school can be a challenging experience for children. Our dedicated leadership team ensures that every new pupil feels welcome and supported:
Move-Up Mornings: Held in June, new pupils spend time with their teachers and classmates, becoming familiar with their surroundings before the new term begins.
Buddy System: Each new child is paired with an existing pupil who helps them settle in, navigate the school, and make friends.
Parent Communication: Our staff maintain close contact with parents during the first week to ensure a smooth transition.
Pastoral Monitoring: Houseparents meet new pupils and maintain pastoral records on our secure iSAMS database.
EAL/ELL Support: Pupils with English as an Additional Language are guided by our EAL team, who provide targeted support, including an induction programme to help them adapt quickly.
SEN Support: Our Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) works with pupils requiring additional support, ensuring their needs are met in partnership with parents.
Day-to-Day Well-Being
Every day at BC Academy, pupils are encouraged to take care of themselves and others. We promote positive values such as kindness, respect, resilience, and responsibility. Pupils are motivated to:
Try New Things: Explore different activities, take managed risks, and learn from their experiences.
Show Empathy and Respect: Treat peers, staff, and the wider school community with kindness and consideration.
Build Confidence: Develop self-awareness, courage, and a sense of belonging.
Positive Reinforcement
At BC Academy, we believe in recognising and celebrating positive behaviour. Our staff award praise points to pupils who demonstrate kindness, thoughtfulness, and a positive attitude towards others. This approach helps pupils understand the values we cherish and encourages them to embody these qualities.
Dedicated Staff and Safeguarding
Our staff undergo regular safeguarding training and are qualified in First Aid.
We provide access to a School Counsellor for pupils who may require additional emotional support.
The Deputy Head of Well-Being oversees pupil well-being across the school, holding weekly meetings with Senior Management and Houseparents to discuss any concerns.
At BC Academy, we are more than just a school – we are a caring community where every child is seen, heard, and supported.
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Full address: G19, 19B Street, Umm Suqeim 2, Dubai, UAE
Call us at: +971 52 824 08 78
Email at: info@bcacad.org
BC Academy International School & Early Childhood Centre
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