The Medical Centre at St Lawrence College
The Medical Centre plays a central role in our comprehensive approach to pastoral care, supporting the health and wellbeing of all pupils and staff. Our aim is to provide a welcoming, professional and safe environment where students feel supported physically and emotionally throughout their school journey.
Round-the-Clock Care
The Medical Centre is staffed 24 hours a day during term time by a team of qualified nurses. On Sundays, an on-call service operates from 10am to 7pm for emergencies and advice. The team includes five General Registered Nurses, led by Senior Nurse Gill Goodwin, who has extensive experience in paediatrics. Other team members include Jane Sullivan, Sandra Wilson, Susan Smallbone and Ruth Town. All are trained in Mental Health First Aid and each brings over 20 years of nursing experience to their role.
Support for New Boarders
All new boarders undergo a full medical assessment within their first few weeks at the College. Regular health checks, including height and weight monitoring, are part of our commitment to pupil health.
Day-to-Day Medical Needs
If a pupil becomes unwell, they are seen initially by the Medical Centre team. Pupils can attend directly, or will be escorted by a member of staff if under the age of 16. Common needs include minor injuries, medication administration, and monitoring ongoing conditions.
GP Services and Video Consultations
We work closely with our local GP surgery, which offers biweekly video link consultations with a female GP. Face-to-face appointments are also available at St. Peters Surgery, usually at 8am to accommodate boarding school pupils.
Specialist Clinics and Immunisations
The GP ensures that pupils with asthma are reviewed regularly by the Asthma Nurse. Routine immunisations are delivered on-site through visits from the School Immunisation Team, as per the UK Childhood Immunisation Programme.
Travel Vaccinations and Advice
For international pupils and those travelling abroad, the Medical Centre can coordinate travel vaccinations via a local travel clinic.
External Appointments and Parental Communication
Medical Centre staff accompany students to all external healthcare appointments, including hospital visits, physiotherapy, dental and orthodontic appointments. Parents are kept informed of all medical developments involving their child.
Counselling and Emotional Support
A quiet, dedicated space within the Medical Centre is used by our trained independent listeners and counsellors. Available to pupils from both the Junior and Senior Schools, students may self-refer or be referred by parents or staff. Our goal is to offer a calm and confidential setting where pupils can address mental health concerns, such as anxiety, in a supportive environment.
Overnight Care and Isolation
Should a boarder require overnight observation, the Medical Centre can accommodate up to seven pupils: three boys, three girls, and one in a separate isolation room for infectious illness. The space is designed to be calm and homely while maintaining appropriate clinical standards.
