The Role of the Form Tutor

Tutors in Years 7, 8 & 9 do not always teach their form as a group in their own subject. For those tutors who do not teach a "discussion-rich" subject (such as English or RS) PSHE lessons offer a useful and contrasting contact with pupils. Moreover, this contact can often give tutors a very different view of a pupil from the one they receive in an academic context.

At the beginning of the school year tutors are requested to establish a set of ground rules with their form. These should focus on how pupils would like to be treated by others. Tutors and pupils are encouraged to display them in the form room, and keep to them. Sensitive issues may arise, so the need for confidentiality must be stressed. Tutors are, however, specifically requested not to use PSHE time as a 'dumping ground': catching up on admin tasks, lecturing the class on behaviour or having a general discussion are activities that do not belong to this subject. Pupils have an entitlement to the programme of study.

We believe PSHE is quality time for pupil-staff interaction, to explore areas and issues that will enable pupils to develop their ideas of themselves and others in a structured, yet varied setting. Additional tasks such as the planning and rehearsal of a class assembly are valid uses of PSHE time.

Teaching methods

The syllabus is flexible; there is no prescriptive method, except that a variety of active learning techniques is encouraged. Planning and preparation for PSHE lessons is needed as for any other subject.

We encourage a variety of approaches and methods. 'Death by worksheet' can be a danger, but handouts do give a structure. Each tutor's personality will play a large part in the way PSHE is delivered. There is freedom of style.

Detailed information for tutors in Years 7, 8 & 9 is given in their teaching file along with photocopiable worksheets.

Homework policy

There is no homework allocation as such. Tutors may ask their form to research a topic or complete a piece of writing started in class.