Matron

Cultivating a Nurturing Home for Boarding Pupils

Are you an exceptionally organised, empathetic, and proactive individual with a deep-seated commitment to the holistic well-being and development of young people? We are seeking a highly dedicated Resident Matron to become an integral part of our thriving boarding house community. This pivotal role involves providing outstanding pastoral care and comprehensive support to approximately 65 pupils, aged 13-18, ensuring they thrive in a supportive and enriching environment.

Working in seamless collaboration with the Housemaster, you will be fundamental in cultivating a warm, safe, and truly supportive 'home away from home' for our students. Your ability to establish strong, trusting relationships with pupils, parents, and colleagues will be paramount in fostering a positive and cohesive boarding experience.

The Heart of the Role: Pupil Welfare and Support

At the core of the Matron's responsibilities lies the pastoral care of our pupils. You will be responsible for their health, safety, and their overall physical, social, emotional, and mental well-being. This multifaceted aspect includes:

• Daily Care: Running the House surgery, dealing with minor ailments and injuries, administering prescribed medications (in accordance with regulations), and caring for pupils who are unwell in the House. You will carry out initial diagnoses and refer pupils to our Medical Centre when appropriate, meticulously updating records on our information management system (SIMS).

• Medical Liaison: Maintaining regular communication with the Medical Centre regarding pupil treatments and ensuring relevant staff are aware of allergies and serious medical conditions. You will also organise and escort pupils to external appointments (hospital, opticians, dentist).

• Settling In: Providing dedicated support for new pupils as they transition into boarding life, being particularly attentive to those experiencing homesickness or needing extra care.

• Safeguarding: Vigilantly identifying and reporting any safeguarding concerns to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) in strict accordance with school policies.

• Parent Communication: Liaising regularly and effectively with parents on domestic, medical, and welfare matters, ensuring the Housemaster is always fully informed.

• Engagement: Taking a genuine interest in pupils' extra-curricular activities and, where possible, attending events to show support and further build rapport. You will also assist the Housemaster in organising social events for the boys.

Operational Excellence: House Management and Staff Leadership

Beyond pastoral care, the Matron plays a crucial role in the efficient and high-standard management of the boarding house itself. This includes:

• Domestic Oversight: Supervising the general management of the house, ensuring consistently high levels of cleanliness and maintenance. This involves monitoring the condition of the house and equipment, liaising with the Works Department for repairs, maintaining stocks of supplies, and arranging deep cleaning.

• Staff Leadership: Directly line managing the Relief Matron and all domestic staff, including conducting annual appraisals, ensuring appropriate cleaning schedules are in place, and arranging cover for absent staff. You will be involved in the recruitment process, interviewing and appointing staff in consultation with our HR department, and bringing any disciplinary or performance matters to the attention of the Housemaster and HR Manager.

• Financial Administration: Reconciling and authorising invoices within the allocated budget for the House.

• Catering Liaison: Working closely with the Catering Management Team to ensure the highest standards of food provision, catering to special dietary requirements, and adhering to food hygiene practices. You will participate in regular meetings with the Head Chef and House Food Committee.

• Laundry Management: Supervising arrangements for pupils' linen and laundry service, liaising with the school Laundry Team, and arranging for minor repairs and name tape sewing.

• Health & Safety Compliance: Assisting the Housemaster in meeting all Health and Safety standards, conducting risk assessments, ensuring fire equipment tests are carried out, maintaining staff training records, and ensuring First Aid boxes are fully equipped.

A Collaborative and Dynamic Environment

This is a fulfilling residential role that offers a unique opportunity to shape the daily lives of our pupils. You will be fully supported by a dedicated Relief Matron who allows for regular time off during the week. Regular meetings with the Housemaster, active participation in termly meetings, and continuous professional development through training events are all integral to this position.

Essential Requirements: A full, current driving license and the ability to use your own car for school business (covered by the school's insurance) are both essential.

If you are a highly organised, empathetic, and proactive professional seeking a deeply rewarding role where you can genuinely contribute to the positive boarding experience and personal development of young people, we warmly encourage your application.