The aim of the Guidance Department is to provide support for pupils and to promote good working relationships between pupils, parents and school ensuring that pupils achieve their full academic potential and derive as much benefit as possible from the range of opportunities offered.
The Principal Teacher of Guidance is concerned with each and every pupil’s personal, curricular and vocational welfare and by keeping in close touch with the pupil and his or her parents will be able to offer support and guidance at different stages in the child’s school career.
It is the responsibility of the Principal Teacher of Guidance to provide a course of Personal and Social Education. Every class receives one lesson per week on a wide range of topics relating to personal development. This includes topics on health, self-awareness and relationships, bullying, subject choices, careers education and issues of current social concern.
The Guidance Department is supported by the Registration Teachers who can be a first point of contact for pupils and who also keep the Principal Teacher of Guidance informed of any attendance problems.
CAREERS
Careers materials are available in the Library and also in the Guidance Department. The Careers Officer (Mr Holmer) visits the school weekly to interview and advise students. Help and advice is given for the completion of application forms. Visits to Open Days/Careers Conventions and speakers are available and conferences are arranged for senior pupils. Prefects are ‘Buddies’ to S1 pupils to help the settling in process.