If your child isn’t thriving in their current school environment, you’re not alone. The good news is, it’s not too late for a fresh start. Whether they’re approaching GCSEs or A Levels, the right setting can make all the difference.
At Ealing Independent College (EIC), we believe that academic success begins with strong pastoral support. We pride ourselves on offering a nurturing, inclusive space where young people feel safe, valued, and ready to learn.
What Does Pastoral Care Mean at EIC?
Pastoral care is at the heart of everything we do. This goes far beyond checking in with students when things go wrong; it’s about creating a culture where every student feels known and understood, every day.
Laura Bellerby, our Vice Principal, leads on safeguarding, special educational needs (SEN), and pastoral care. She’s also our Designated Safeguarding Lead and University Admissions Officer, combining academic oversight with deep care for students’ wellbeing. Laura says, “It’s incredibly rewarding to watch students grow during their time with us. We’ve built a supportive environment that offers stability and belonging to those who may have found other school settings difficult.”
A Personal Approach for Every Student
What makes EIC different is our size and our mindset. Small class sizes mean staff get to know students quickly and build strong relationships with them. Our open-door policy ensures that students always have someone they can talk to, whether they need academic guidance or emotional reassurance.
We understand that many of our students join us after challenging experiences elsewhere. Whether they’ve struggled with anxiety, lacked motivation, or simply didn’t feel seen in a larger school environment, we’re here to help them reset, rebuild, and succeed.
“Joining EIC was a big change for me, especially since I had been out of school for two years due to anxiety. One thing I love about EIC is the smaller size and the fact that classes are interactive and engaging. Over time, I’ve gone from not attending school at all to coming in regularly, and every day gets easier. I really like the people, the teachers, and the supportive environment where I never feel pressured. It’s a place where I feel understood and comfortable.” – Lily, Year 9 student
Building a Culture of Support and Belonging
We work hard to ensure that no student feels isolated or overwhelmed. Peer mentoring, regular one-to-one check-ins, and a welcoming, respectful community all contribute to a sense of belonging. Our staff are approachable and experienced, and our size allows for a level of responsiveness that’s hard to find in larger schools.
Our inclusive ethos means we’re able to support students with a range of needs, including those with high learning potential and those who may have faced previous barriers to learning. With no dress code, students can express themselves comfortably, while our small class sizes mean teachers truly get to know each student, fostering strong relationships and tailored support.
“At EIC, there’s much more trust and freedom compared to my old school. The small class sizes help me focus, and the lessons are interactive and easy to understand. The teachers are always willing to support me and ensure that I grasp the material. I’ve learned a lot about American history, and I’m thoroughly enjoying my experience at EIC.” – Alex, Year 9 student
A Final Word: If Your Child Needs a Fresh Start
If your child is anxious, disengaged, or simply not flourishing in their current setting, we want you to know there’s another way. At Ealing Independent College, students are supported as individuals, encouraged to be themselves, to work at their own pace, and to reach their full potential. Many of our students progress on to top universities across the country.
Interested in Learning More?
If you’re considering a change for your child, we’d love to speak with you. Book a visit, speak with our team, and discover how Ealing Independent College could offer the fresh start your child needs. Contact our Admissions Officer on (+44) 020 8579 6668 or enquire today to find out more.