Pastoral Care

With almost 200 years experience of educating young men, Clongowes is clear about its aims regarding formation. Cura Personalis ( a concern for the individual person) remains a basic characteristic of Jesuit education, and in Clongowes particular attention is paid to the welfare of the boys entering first year. Teachers, Prefects, and Spiritual Fathers are seen as more than academic guides. They are closely involved with the lives of the boys and how they both live and learn. While they respect the boys’ privacy they are ready to listen to their concerns, share their joys and sorrows and help wherever possible.

In addition to the Prefect, each boy has a range of responsible adults to whom he can turn in moments of need. The Academic Year Head assisted by two tutors, takes responsibility for monitoring the academic progress of each pupil in a year group. He/she liaises with parents when necessary. The Spiritual Father is the boy’s confidante or anamchara. He is independent of the administrative structure of the school and is available to listen to the boy’s anxieties or worries, to encourage and to offer advice. Other members of staff, the Assistant Pastoral Coordinator in particular, play a valuable role in this regard.

Mutual respect and cooperation between pupils and staff are based on our specified Code of Conduct and are central to the building of a sense of community. While boys wear school uniform only on Sundays and on formal occasions, they are expected to dress neatly and to present themselves tidily at all times.