Educators have increasingly demonstrated

commitment to, and invested much effort in

advancing the cause of pastoral care, action

research, and the status of teaching as a

profession, over the last two decades. What

is largely unrecognised is how these areas

of education are linked. A shared focus of

attention—evident in educational literature and

professional practice—however, constitutes

only a minor nexus between and among these

three emerging areas of education.

Noteworthy and central to all three areas

appears to be the idea of making a difference in

the lives of others. This article explores some

of the challenges and complexities inherent in

existing and potential linkages, including some

disjunctions, and their implication for teachers.