How does Leighton Park help children in the pre-teen/teenage years?

Leighton Park has kept my children thinking about micro and macro issues; it has encouraged their social conscience; particularly, it has encouraged them to be individuals.
A parent (Years 9 & 11)

If a pupil feels that his views are as important as those of a member of staff and he feels respected then, in return, he will respect others. Leighton Park is great academically, but it is everything else that it offers that is of most value to us as parents of a teenager.
A parent (Sixth Form)

Staff and pupils are very caring towards all in the LP community – so a lot of tears are shed at school with tutors and friends rather than transferring always to parents. Our school is very much a partnership and all pupils believe there is someone in authority looking out for them, even when their parents may live abroad. In other ways the close relationship between staff and pupils, and between pupils themselves, can help to resolve many issues of teenage angst.
Karen Gracie-Langrick, Assistant Director of Sixth Form & Head of History

The house staff have been fantastic. We have not had many problems because my daughter is on friendly, trusting terms with the adults so can voice her concerns.
A parent (Sixth Form)

Fryer House is very caring and ‘on the ball’. All my worries were taken seriously and teachers knew my child well within a short time.
A parent (Year 9)

Listening and guidance: staff give a lot of time to pupils who have problems and issues. I have always thought stressing that pupils can talk to any member of staff to be a very good approach.
Nigel Williams, Director of Studies

Allowing Year 7 and 8 children to be slightly separate from the rest of the school gives them a breathing space between primary school and the more senior pupils. This allows them to come to terms with the change of schools, whilst being under no pressure to grow up too quickly. As a parent it is reassuring to know that my child is in the care of designated, committed and experienced staff, in a house with relatively few other children, all of a similar age.
A parent (Year 8)

I advised a parent yesterday that Years 9/10 and into Year 11 can be difficult, challenging years where you have to change tack and win over ‘young adults’ by letting them decide what they do but within guidelines. We give them a destination and help guide them, not tell them how to get there.
Graham Smith, Housemaster

By giving pupils your time. Lots of adults and older students are around, when they are needed, to listen and guide. Also having clear guidelines as to what is expected of them.
Roger Aylward, Head of Fryer House

Very supportive pastoral network and staff who care about their children.
Jakki Marr, Deputy Housemistress and Head of Girls' Games