At our School, every child is known, cared for and valued. Our unwavering commitment to the holistic wellbeing of all our students is our highest priority.
We intentionally create an environment where every student can thrive mentally, physically, and emotionally while developing a positive sense of self. Our approach to Pastoral Care centres on establishing meaningful relationships and fostering a sense of belonging and inclusivity.
Our Pastoral Care Team comprises two School Psychologists, the School Chaplain, and members of the School Leadership Team dedicated to Primary and Secondary Pastoral Care. This diverse team ensures that our students' emotional and psychological wellbeing is a priority.
Initiatives such as our Whole School Buddy Program, School House System, Primary Pastoral Care Program, Secondary Pastoral Care Program and Stymie allow us to create a warm, inclusive atmosphere where students are encouraged and enabled to thrive both academically and emotionally.
Whole School Buddy Program
Our Whole School Buddy Program fosters a strong sense of belonging and inclusivity, connecting Primary and Secondary students across all levels.
Students connect with their buddies frequently throughout the year, including at notable events such as Harmony Day, R U OK? Day, and the National Day of Action Against Bullying and Violence.
School House System
Every student belongs to one of four Houses: Irwin, Moore, Stirling and Waylen. The House System plays a significant role in our students’ journey, providing them with a sense of belonging and community.
Primary Pastoral Care Program
In the Primary School, Pastoral Care is delivered predominantly by Classroom Teachers. Students are taught the skills necessary to enable them to succeed in school, both academically and emotionally. It is widely recognised that a child’s emotional health and wellbeing influences their cognitive development and learning, as well as their mental wellbeing, into adulthood.
At our School, we know that everyone experiences life challenges that can make us vulnerable. At times, anyone may need additional emotional support. We take the view that positive mental health is everyone’s business and that we all have a role to play.
We use a range of strategies and programs to:
- Help students understand their emotions and feelings
- Help students feel comfortable sharing any concerns or worries
- Help students form and maintain positive relationships
- Promote self-esteem
- Help students develop emotional resilience and manage setbacks
- Encourage students to develop confidence and be comfortable with who they are
Central to our proactive approach to Pastoral Care are our social-emotional learning programs, “You Can Do It!” (Pre-Kindergarten to Pre-Primary) and “Open Parachute” (Years 1 to 6).
Secondary Pastoral Care Program
In the Secondary School, every student belongs to a Pastoral Care Group (PCG) of similar-aged peers. Students benefit from the guidance and mentoring of a dedicated Pastoral Care Teacher who facilitates a comprehensive Wellbeing Program.
At the heart of our Wellbeing Program lies “Open Parachute”, a clinically validated, research-based program with a focus on social and emotional development. Through weekly sessions, students develop practical mental health skills that enable them to identify their struggles, and then use these skills to overcome challenges. By learning and developing these skills, students trust their own abilities and change any unhelpful patterns of thinking and behaving.
“Open Parachute” uses curriculum-aligned lessons featuring authentic documentary videos of Australian teenagers recounting their personal journeys of overcoming their struggles. By employing peer role modelling, the program not only builds resilience but also nurtures a secure classroom atmosphere, enabling students to effectively navigate challenges.
The Pastoral Care Program also includes Year 7/Year 11 Peer Support, protective behaviours and goal setting.
Stymie
“Stymie” is an online, confidential messaging service for students who are needing help or concerned about someone else at school. “Stymie” provides a proactive opportunity for Years 5-12 students to say something about harmful behaviours, or anything they are concerned about for themselves, or someone else. It is accessible 24/7, anonymous and easy to use. Messages are typically delivered in a few seconds to the relevant members of our Pastoral Care Team.
Benefits include:
- Fostering a safe environment
- Enabling early intervention
- Alleviating anxiety and stress
- Promoting a culture of care
