Tutorial System Every pupil has a Tutor who is responsible for monitoring academic progress, advising on choice of academic subjects and future career decisions and providing a link between subject teachers and parents. In addition, Tutors keep a close eye on the social and personal development of their Tutees. A happy and secure pupil is more likely to succeed academically and, similarly, a pupil who is making positive progress in his or her work is more likely to have a fulfilling and positive social and personal life. There is one designated Tutor period each week and the tutor programme provides an integrated course involving study skills, 'Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE)', academic support, monitoring and recording, and careers education. It is a central part of the Stowe curriculum. The Lower School Tutorial system is organised by House and Year Groups. These small groups encourage the development of a good and trusting relationship between Tutors and Tutees. We try, wherever possible, to ensure that the same Tutor is kept over both GCSE years. Areas currently covered in tutorial lessons over the GCSE years are:
Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE)
- illegal drugs and the risk of alchohol and smoking
- the development of long term relationships
- sexual responsibility and sexual health
- AIDS
- healthy eating and living
- peer pressure
- stress management
- race and culture
- consumerism
This programme is delivered through the Medical Centre and by visiting speakers and is supported by Tutors.
The Upper School Tutorial system is organised according to various selection criteria, namely subject options, House affiliation and personal choice. Housemasters / Housemistresses assist pupils in their choice of a Sixth Form Tutor at the end of the Fifth Year and the list is co-ordinated by the Senior Tutor. Upper Sixth Form Tutor groups also meet formally once a week at a time convenient to both Tutor and Tutees alike. The emphasis in the Upper Sixth is rather more on one to one communication, particularly for the purposes of the UCAS applications in the Michaelmas term. Through discussion and guidance from their Tutors, pupils are set targets and given a clear understanding of our expectations. Progress is closely monitored and reported back to both pupils and parents, through the reporting system and weekly one-to-one Tutor sessions. The School believes that it is vitally important to keep parents fully informed about their child's progress and about what is going on in the School. Housemasters / Housemistresses and Tutors are in constant communication over the progress of all pupils and they will be very happy to discuss any matters concerning your child should any concerns arise.
