Why We Need Pastoral Care with Phil Jones | In This Together

In this episode of In This Together, host Becky Dawson joins Phil Jones—secondary school leader and Chair of the National Association for Pastoral Care in Education (NAPCE)—to explore shifting education from rigid exam results to holistic personal growth. Phil shares insights on adapting pastoral systems to a changing world, the importance of compassionate leadership, and how schools can build inclusive environments. Whether you're refining your pastoral strategy or strengthening staff-student relationships, this conversation offers actionable advice for all education leaders.

Takeaways

• Making learning relevant and meaningful for young people is the single biggest challenge and responsibility facing modern pastoral care systems.
• Pastoral care acts as an essential safety net, empowering pupils to take risks, build resilience, and develop as complete human beings rather than just exam candidates.
• Every staff member plays a pastoral role, as everyday interactions and morning greetings set the emotional climate for student behavior management and engagement throughout the day.
• Proactive guidance over simple prohibition, such as teaching safe technological habits rather than outright banning devices, equips children for life beyond the classroom.
• Prioritising educator wellbeing is fundamental, as high-quality pastoral care and strong school relationships are impossible without supporting the mental health and sense of belonging of the staff.

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Explore our amazing Leaders resources here → https://www.twinkl.co.uk/r/dslxw

 Questions Inspectors May Ask Pastoral Support Staff Leaders Resource → https://www.twinkl.co.uk/r/10m026 

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Chapters

00:00 - Introduction - The primary challenge for pastoral care systems in modern education.

00:26 - Welcome & Guest Introduction - Becky Dawson introduces Phil Jones and his extensive background with NAPCE.

01:41 - Phil’s Journey in Education - Early experiences in coaching, discovering a passion for teaching, and joining NAPCE.

06:26 - The Core Purpose of NAPCE - History of NAPCE, research-informed practice, and moving beyond an exam-only focus.

10:47 - Pastoral Care as the Foundation - Why effective pastoral systems underpin overall academic achievement and school culture.

13:11 - Every Educator Has a Pastoral Role - How small daily interactions from all staff impact student behaviour management and wellbeing.

16:03 - National Awards & Annual Conference - Celebrating pastoral unsung heroes and driving radical change through shared best practice.

21:35 - Current Challenges in Pastoral Leadership - Bridging accountability, parental engagement, and creating coherent school structures.

24:00 - Conformity vs. Student Agency - Preparing young people for a changing world by fostering critical thinking over mere compliance.

29:07 - Defining Authentic Care in Schools - Moving beyond quick fixes to build meaningful relationships and life-long skills.

33:14 - Collaborative Cultures & Staff Wellbeing - The necessity of team-wide approaches and protecting teacher wellbeing to sustain quality care.

37:15 - Connecting with NAPCE & Final Takeaway - How to join the network, access resources, and reflect on the true purpose of education.