Pastoral Care

St Mary’s has a proud reputation for excellence in Pastoral Care, demonstrated through our unwavering commitment to love, support, and care for every member of our school community.

“Pastoral care refers to action taken within a school to promote and enhance personal, social, physical, emotional, mental and spiritual wellbeing. Optimal wellbeing is characterised by positive feelings and attitude, positive relationships with others, resilience and satisfaction with self and experiences and engagement in learning.”

Taken from: The Pastoral Care and Wellbeing for Learning Framework, Catholic Schools Broken Bay

As a faith-centred community, we are deeply committed to the wellbeing and pastoral care of each student and staff member. This commitment is reflected in our daily interactions and the supportive culture we foster.

We recognise that wellbeing is dynamic and integral to positive learning outcomes. Our approach is multidimensional and interrelated, focusing on:

  • Social and Emotional Learning (SEL): Developing the attributes and strengths that help students grow through the challenges and complexities of everyday life.
  • Positive Behaviours for Learning (PBL): A framework that underpins behavioural expectations and promotes a consistent, respectful learning environment.
  • School Values: Honesty, Compassion, Respect, Service, Justice, Hope, and Courage—pillars that guide our everyday actions and interactions.
  • Student Leadership and Representation: Empowering students to share their perspectives and contribute meaningfully at every stage of development.

We believe that nurturing wellbeing is not only vital to a child’s present experience but also essential in preparing them for a flourishing future.