UWC has a strong commitment to the wellbeing, development and support of our students – individually and collectively – recognising the vital role that pastoral care plays in UWC communities. Bringing students together from across the world as part of our deliberate commitment to nurture diversity – we seek to support them as they navigate various challenges including relocation from their home contexts, language acquisition, a rigorous academic program, and much more.
As in any UWC college or school, UWC East Africa has an on-site team of staff who support student’s wellbeing. Their roles include but are not limited to: residential-parents and mentors, student advisors, peer support networks, nurses and doctors providing access to healthcare on campus and locally, socioemotional and college counsellors, and heads of residential life.
It is important for students to take time to reflect on their role within their school or college community. This includes actively thinking about how they interact with each other and taking responsibility to build a respectful happy community. Ultimately, our UWC campuses are guided by a fundamental principle: respect for others. When students feel happy, safe and supported, they are best positioned to thrive academically, contribute positively to our communities and fulfil their potential.
On campus, pastoral teams regularly come together to ensure that they are all working towards creating a healthy community for living, learning and working together. As part of their induction, students engage in dialogues and are trained, with special emphasis placed on international and intercultural understanding, celebration of diversity, cultural sensitivity and the importance of building positive relationships across such differences. Throughout the academic year, students hold vibrant discussions both on campus and beyond, promoting a sense of belonging and shared responsibility that lie at the heart of the UWC experience.
UWC also provides staff involved in pastoral care of students across all UWC schools and colleges with professional development opportunities, springboarding ongoing collaboration and support, for the wellbeing of all students.