Pastoral Care & Wellbeing

At The Holy Cross Sixth Form, we provide dedicated support to ensure every student feels safe, valued, and ready to succeed, with a strong focus on wellbeing, personal development, and a sense of belonging.

We recognise that while academic success is important, your physical and mental health, social wellbeing, and sense of community are just as vital. Knowing that you have someone to turn to when things get tough is central to thriving in Sixth Form.

Mentors: A Step Beyond Tutoring

In the Sixth Form, you are paired with a dedicated mentor rather than a traditional tutor. Your mentor is your first point of contact for any concerns, guiding you through academic challenges, monitoring progress, and offering practical strategies to succeed.

Mentors support students throughout their Sixth Form journey, assisting with:

  • University and career research
  • Personal statements and UCAS applications
  • School references
  • Academic and personal development

They walk alongside you from the first day of Year 12 to your final preparations for life beyond Holy Cross, ensuring personalised guidance every step of the way.

Mentor Meetings

Structured mentor meetings ensure you receive regular, meaningful guidance:

  • Autumn Term: Daily registration allows frequent contact with your mentor and tutor group
  • Spring Term onwards: Two dedicated days each week for one-to-one mentor meetings, allowing focused discussion of progress, goals, and wellbeing
  • Attendance at registration is only required if a mentor meeting is scheduled
A Positive Start to Each Day

Tutor time is designed to start each day positively, with activities including:

  • Meditation and mindfulness
  • Public affairs and news discussions
  • ‘Diversity Day’ and cultural learning
  • Language learning exercises
  • Quiet reflection before the school day
“Tutor time at Holy Cross allows us to start each day of the week differently… It sets the mood of the day correctly and lets us prepare for the interactions, lessons, and homework to come.” Year 13 student
Wednesday Afternoons

Year 12 students have dedicated Wednesday Afternoons to choose from a variety of enrichment activities, giving them the freedom to explore interests, develop skills, and support their wellbeing.

Options include PE/Games and Gym to stay active and manage stress, Band to relax and socialise with friends, Faith in Action to contribute to charitable projects, Young Enterprise to develop business and entrepreneurial skills, and Primary School Reading, where students give back by helping younger learners. These activities allow Sixth Formers to balance school life, pursue personal interests, and make a positive impact in the community.

Sixth Form Interventions

At Holy Cross, Sixth Form students have access to a wide range of intervention and drop-in sessions designed to support both academic progress and wellbeing. Held at lunchtime and after school, these sessions cover subjects including Maths, Sciences, Economics, Chemistry, Music, and Sociology. They offer students the chance to consolidate learning, receive one-to-one support, or extend their knowledge through enrichment activities like Olympiads and Advanced Study Clubs. These sessions help students stay on top of their workload, build confidence, and make the most of their Sixth Form experience.

Additional Support & Wellbeing Services

We offer a wide range of support to maintain emotional, social, and physical wellbeing:

  • School Health Practitioner: Drop-in sessions on Tuesday lunchtimes
  • KU19 School Health: Free and confidential service for 5–19 year olds
  • Counselling sessions: Available through tutor and Head of Year referrals
  • School Chaplain and pastoral team: Provide guidance and spiritual support


Through our experienced pastoral team, House System, leadership opportunities, enrichment activities, and trips, students enjoy a strong sense of community and belonging.

Inclusive and Supportive Community

At The Holy Cross Sixth Form, every student, regardless of faith or background, is welcome to be their authentic self. Our pastoral care ensures that everyone feels supported, secure, and valued while preparing for academic success and life beyond school.