We are delighted to congratulate Mrs Willetts, Head of Guidance and Teacher of Biology, on her recent graduation, having successfully completed her Master of Education (MEd) in Pastoral Care, Guidance and Pupil Support through University of Aberdeen.

Her Master’s research focused on factors which affect pupil belonging, reflecting her passion for pastoral care and inclusive practice. The research explored pupils’ sense of belonging in our secondary school and how their experiences align with staff perceptions. The findings showed a strong shared understanding of belonging across the school, with pupils especially valuing positive relationships with individual teachers and feeling listened to and supported. The study also highlighted clubs as important spaces where pupils feel able to exercise pupil voice, build their confidence, and strengthen their connection to the wider school community, reinforcing the school’s commitment to inclusive, relationship-centred practice.

Mrs Willetts, shared: “My dissertation is the culmination of three years’ work. It has been hard but very valuable, informing many different areas of my practice. I was delighted to find a shared understanding and to recognise the value that pupils place on the co-curricular experiences here at RGC. I’d like to thank the families who took part in my research and the staff who gave their time. I couldn’t have completed this without the support of my colleague Kirsten Colquhoun and the continued dedication of RGC staff professional learning.”

Mrs Smith, Head of Senior School, said: “We are very proud of Mrs Willetts; her commitment to ongoing professional learning is admirable and of huge benefit to RGC pupils. She enjoys excellent relationships with pupils, parents and colleagues so it is fitting that she chose the topic of ‘belonging’ as a focus for her research. Completing a post-graduate course alongside her considerable day to day responsibilities has been an impressive undertaking and we congratulate her wholeheartedly.”