House System

A key part of our school community is the House system – it is an important and supportive framework designed to encourage a sense of belonging, support and healthy competition for every pupil.

On joining the school each pupil is placed into one of our seven Houses, named after some of the UK’s most iconic national forests: Ashdown, Bowland, Elveden, Kielder, Richmond, Sherwood, and Whinfell.

Pupils will remain in this House for the entirety of their five years in school. Each House is led by a Head of House who provides leadership within the school’s pastoral system.

The Heads of Houses are led by the Assistant Head Teacher - with responsibility for Pastoral Care – Mr S Wheeler. swheeler@eastwood.southend.sch.uk

Within each House, pupils are supported by a dedicated Form Tutor who will usually remain with the same form as they move through the school. The Form Tutor should always be the first, and most important, point of contact for both pupils and parents as they see the pupils in their form on a daily basis. The Form Tutor role and the strong relationships they build with the pupils in their form is a central part of the school’s success.

Form Tutor's offer daily guidance, encouragement, and care, and play a vital role in monitoring academic progress, wellbeing, and personal development.

Overseeing the work of Form Tutors are our seven Heads of House — experienced and passionate leaders who ensure that every pupil receives the support they need to thrive. Heads of House work closely with Form Tutors and class teachers to celebrate achievements, address challenges, and create a strong sense of community within their House. The House system is more than just a structure — it’s a source of opportunity. Through inter-house competitions, collaborative projects, and leadership roles, pupils are encouraged to develop confidence, resilience, and a spirit of teamwork. Together, the Form Tutors and Heads of House form a strong pastoral network, ensuring that every pupil is known, valued, and supported.

Form tutor contact details can be found on the contacts page. 

abishop@eastwood.southend.sch.uk

ljames@eastwood.southend.sch.uk

bcooper@eastwood.southend.sch.uk

wpiercy@eastwood.southend.sch.uk

jclark@eastwood.southend.sch.uk

srwheeler@eastwood.southend.sch.uk

dbraybrook@eastwood.southend.sch.uk