Circle of Care

At Ridley, we see each student as an individual with unique needs. As such, we employ a Circle of Care approach to ensure that every Ridelian is known, cared for and supported.

The Circle of Care is an interconnected network of staff and faculty that help students flourish – in mind, body and spirit. While this vast network of care may look different for every student, one thing remains the same — our caring and compassionate community is ready to help students build relationships, make connections and feel a sense of belonging at Ridley.

Learn more about each of the roles that support our students below.

Teacher

Our faculty leaders are experts in their craft and discipline. More than teachers, they are expert learners and mentors who inspire students to develop in all aspects of life – mind, body and spirit.

Learning Strategist

Learning Strategists offer learning support through workshops, assistive technologies, personalized assessments and individual student success plans.

Advisor

Our advisory programmes pair small groups of students with a staff or faculty advisor, who leads programming and check-ins with their advisees each week. Advisors are there to be a support for both school and non-school-related questions and concerns and to provide meaningful relationships and mentorship.

University Counsellor

University Counsellors offer world-class specialized guidance to ensure each student is able to find their 'right fit' after graduation.

Nurse & Doctor

Physicians hold on-site clinics four days a week and are on-call 24/7, working closely with nurses and school professionals to meet the health and developmental needs of all students. A Registered Practical Nurse is on-site during business hours, on-call 24/7 and frequently accompanies students on field trips.

Social-Emotional Counsellor

Dedicated social and emotional counselling professionals support each of the Lower, Middle and Upper Schools. They conduct classroom lessons, workshops and meetings with individuals, small groups and families.

Coach

Ridley coaches are positive, enthusiastic and goal-oriented. They employ wellbeing education in their approaches, helping students harness their wellbeing to achieve their goals.

Athletic Therapist

Our Athletic Therapy Clinic provides injury prevention education, rehabilitation, and taping and bracing. Athletic therapists also support Ridley sports teams with group education and travel with teams to national and international showcases.

Boarding Don

Boarding Dons provide evening supervision in the boarding houses, building meaningful relationships with students and contributing to a safe, supportive and connected boarding experience.

Assistant Head of House

The Assistant Head of House helps nurture the welfare and progress of every student. Boarding programming allows boarders and day students to develop strong relationships with our boarding staff.

Head of House

Each of Ridley’s ten houses has a Head of House (HOH), and each student belongs to a Ridley House. HOHs are parental figures who lead with compassion, foster wellbeing and encourage personal growth. They maintain student safety, plan fun and engaging activities, and provide conflict resolution.