ISPP Guide for Students & Parents 2025-26

ADVISORY PROGRAMME

Philosophy and Goals of the Home Group Advisory programme

In order for learning to be effective, students must feel secure and supported. At the same time, part of individual learning is also one’s growth in self-awareness, so that students understand themselves and how they interact with the people around them. There are opportunities for personal and social development in all elements of the ISPP learning programme; however, the importance of this aspect is also captured in a dedicated Home Group Advisory programme.

The Home Group Advisory programme supports students in dealing with the personal and social challenges that all young people face. The Home Group Advisory programme supports students so that they feel valued by the adults who are leading their learning. It is a dedicated time for students to explore their identity and place in the world.

The Programme

The purpose of the Home Group Advisory programme is to establish connectedness and build resilience through the delivery of developmentally appropriate activities. Overseen by the Secondary socio-emotional counsellors, and facilitated by the respective grade level Advisors, the programme follows a vertically articulated curriculum (Character Strong!). There is also space built into the curriculum to ensure it can be both proactive and responsive to students’ needs.

The ISPP Advisory Programme has three essential features:

Group numbers are small by design to maximise communication and build relationships.
Every student has an extended period of time with a significant adult in the school.
The programme is developmental and sequential with a component of ‘health and wellness’ at every grade level.

Home Group Advisory time once a week is devoted to quality time between students and the Home Group teacher. The programme is inclusive and interactive, relevant and appropriate to each student’s age and stage of development. An element of the programme is the flexibility in delivery where teachers can negotiate with their group sessions that best meet the needs of the students.