Address

Our Lady's Close

Upper Norwood

SE19 3FA

Follow us

Tutorial System

Tutorial System


The tutorial system exists as a consequence of the philosophy underlying the PACT Educational Trust that parents are the first educators of their children.


Recognising this leads to a fundamental need to establish a close and constant link between the school and the parents. At The Laurels this contact is the tutor. The tutor’s task is to take a direct and personal interest in each child’s development.


The principal area of education which the tutorial system addresses is the pupil’s character. Everything else, including academic results, flows from this. Academic results are part of a bigger picture. The Laurels’ aim is to work with parents in the education of the whole person academically, spiritually, culturally, socially and physically.


Parents meet with tutors every half term. Tutors meet regularly with individual pupils.


The Things Tutors Talk About


  1. Studies
    During the school years character will be largely formed by the approach to schoolwork.
  2. Character Development
    The tutor aims to use every opportunity to encourage the pupil to develop character and they do this hand in hand with the Virtues Programme in place at the school.
  3. Moral and Spiritual Topics
    Whether parents and children are of the Catholic faith, or hold other beliefs, we work together when it comes to moral principles.
  4. Social Development
    Contribution to the wider society with generosity and understanding is important. We aim to foster an attitude of service.


The Tutorial System Can Help Parents


  • See situations objectively
  • View crises positively
  • Focus on the big issues
  • Plan ahead
  • Talk more with one’s spouse
  • Talk more with one’s daughter/son
  • Reflect on the importance of example
  • Grow in one’s own virtue


Topics of Tutorials with Adolescent Pupils Will Include


  • Study Timetable
  • Application to Study
  • Friendships
  • Generosity and Service
  • Contribution to Family Life
  • Laziness and Counteracting It
  • Entertainment Issues
  • Use of Time
  • Use of Money
  • Drugs and Alcohol
  • Social Life
  • Moral Issues
  • Beliefs and Values
  • The Spiritual Dimension of Life


An essential key to full personal development lies in having personalised goals. These goals need to be appropriate, easy to remember, specific, achievable and able to be evaluated.


Share by: