St David’s College placed pastoral support in the spotlight at the Colleges Wales National Conference, where staff shared their expertise with colleges across the country.
Representatives from Estyn and Medr joined colleges, learners and senior leaders to explore the role of pastoral care in supporting learners.
The conference featured presentations and workshops focused on pastoral tutoring, student wellbeing and the impact of high-quality support.
At St David’s, pastoral support sits at the heart of college life and shapes our mission, culture and values.
Pastoral staff work closely with learners every day, helping them feel supported, valued and confident throughout their journey.
St David’s shared its approach to pastoral support with delegates at the Colleges Wales National Conference. Pastoral Area Lead Kane Amos outlined how the College supports every learner with guidance and encouragement.
“Not every learner is surrounded by support, and that’s why it’s important that we exist,” he said.
Kane explained that strong relationships and a genuine understanding of each learner help staff deliver effective pastoral care.
“We believe we must know, value and support every learner to help them flourish.”
Kane also invited delegates to reflect on an important question:
“What is the difference between a college that cares and learners who are cared for?”
Staff across St David’s follow this approach every day, supporting learners’ wellbeing, confidence and personal development alongside their studies.
The conference brought sector leaders together to explore pastoral care’s evolving role and discuss challenges facing colleges today.
Mark Dacey, Chief Executive Officer of NPTC Group of Colleges, highlighted the growing importance of pastoral provision, stating:
“Pastoral support is no longer just nice to have; it is fundamental.”
Building on these discussions, Louise Taylor highlighted review findings and discussed the changing further education landscape:
“The pace of change is faster than before,” she explained, adding that colleges must adapt their support to meet more complex learner needs and wider societal challenges.
Dr Bev Morris also reflected on the impact of pastoral teams across the sector, adding:
“Changing people’s lives — that’s exactly what this role does.”
Ultimately, the conference gave St David’s the opportunity to celebrate our pastoral team and the support they provide learners every day.
Moving forward, the College will continue helping learners feel supported, valued and ready to achieve their goals.
