| Abstract: | Although initially focusing on the parental diagnosis of cancer, the findings reported in this paper have a much wider significance for pastoral care. Earlier research suggested that parental disclosure of diagnosis was not handled sensitively by some secondary schools. The earlier research dealt with the responses of parents and pupils, whilst this research focuses on the perceptions of head teachers. Using unstructured interviews, three key areas were investigated: the recommended procedures for parental contact with the school in relation to confidential issues; the policies or procedures which help or constrain staff from helping distressed children on an individual basis; the needs and concerns of headteachers and staff related to pastoral care in schools. The data provide important insights into the perceptions and issues concerning pastoral care in the current climate. |
