Student Wellbeing and Pastoral Care at OIC Brighton

At OIC Brighton, student wellbeing sits at the heart of everything we do. To understand the kind of support available and the challenges students face, we spoke with Claire Connolly, our College Counsellor and Wellbeing Lead. Claire plays a vital role in helping students settle, thrive and feel at home in our community. 

Creating a Welcoming and Supportive Environment

Claire describes her role as a blend of counselling, wellbeing support and wider pastoral care. Her aim is simple: to ensure that students and staff feel welcomed, listened to and supported from the moment they arrive. 

“We want young people to know they have someone to turn to,” she explains. Whether students are struggling with homesickness, managing a heavy workload or simply needing a quiet space to talk, Claire offers a safe, approachable point of contact. 

Understanding the Pressures Students Face

OIC Brighton is home to many ambitious young people with big aspirations. Claire notes that this drive often comes with pressure to perform academically, alongside the everyday challenges of being a teenager. 

“Students work incredibly hard and have high hopes for their future pathways,” she says. “Balancing sleep, nutrition, friendships, personal interests and revision is a constant challenge.” 

This balance is especially important in a boarding environment. Many of our students arrive from different countries, adjusting not only to a new school but also to a new climate, culture and routine. Claire acknowledges that feelings of homesickness can be very real. 

“It’s a huge thing to come to another country and study. The culture, the weather, even the food can take time to get used to. Brighton is amazing, but it’s understandably very different from many of our students’ home cities.” 

Helping Students Build Confidence and Coping Skills 

Much of Claire’s work focuses on helping young people develop self-awareness, resilience and healthier patterns of thought. She works with students who experience negative self-beliefs about their academic ability, social confidence or sense of worth. 

Together, they explore those inner narratives. 

“I want students to question that critical voice,” Claire says. “Is it really true, or is it a habit they’ve learnt? We all have that internal critic, but we can introduce a more supportive inner voice too.” 

She uses simple, practical tools such as weekly planners, daily routines, nutrition reminders and sleep strategies to help students regain structure and balance. Her aim is to help them feel more grounded, capable and in control of their day-to-day life. 

Working Across the School Community 

Support at OIC Brighton is a team effort. Claire works closely with the boarding team, teachers and student council to help students make meaningful connections and feel part of the community. 

Sometimes her support is as straightforward as encouraging a student to speak with a peer, join a club or talk through an issue with a member of staff. At other times, she acts as an advocate, helping students navigate practical concerns like room changes or creating realistic academic plans. 

Accessing Counselling and Wellbeing Support 

Students can reach Claire in a variety of ways. Many simply knock on her door when her blind is up and she is available. Others email to request a session, often arranging appointments during supervised study periods so they do not miss lessons. 

Teachers and boarding staff also refer students if they have concerns, though Claire always gives young people the choice about whether to come. 

“Some students try a 20‑minute chat to see if it feels right for them. If it doesn’t, that’s completely fine.” 

Claire’s knowledge of Brighton and Hove means she can also recommend external services, charities and youth organisations when appropriate. 

“We’re lucky to be in a very inclusive city with lots of support available,” she adds. 

A Holistic, Human Approach to Wellbeing 

Claire’s compassionate and practical approach plays a key role in helping students settle into life at OIC Brighton. From academic pressures to emotional wellbeing, homesickness to personal confidence, she supports students as whole people and helps them feel seen, understood and valued. 

Her message to students is clear: 

“You are incredible. You have so many qualities and skills. Be your own best advocate. Speak to yourself with kindness. And if you ever need support, my door is open.” 

Discover more about our boarding experience and finding your home from home