Keystage and Tutor System

Pupils at Thetford Grammar School benefit from the holistic approach to pastoral care and academic support of our key stage and tutor system. This ensures depth and consistency of guidance across the many opportunities and challenges that pupils will encounter throughout their education.

The Head of Prep School, Mrs Butler-Hand, has responsibility for pupils up to Year 8 and is supported by the EYFS Co-ordinator, Miss Venables. In the Prep School, class teachers also act as tutors, enabling strong relationships to develop and ensuring that pupils’ academic and personal needs are well known and effectively addressed.

The Upper School is led by Miss Skeels, with tutors supporting pupils in Years 9 to 11, providing consistent guidance during key examination years. The Sixth Form is led by Mrs Clark, assisted by Mrs Beukes, and supported by a dedicated tutor team who guide students through their academic studies and personal development, including preparation for higher education and future careers.

All Heads of Phase and tutors are teachers, several of whom are also Heads of Department. This strengthens the links between pupils’ academic progress and their personal development and enables effective communication between pastoral and academic staff.

Tutors meet with pupils twice daily during registration and tutorial sessions. These regular contact points allow concerns to be identified and addressed promptly and ensure that pupils feel known, supported and valued. Tutor groups provide a positive and inclusive environment, promoting strong peer relationships and a sense of belonging within the school community.