Changes to Pastoral Care

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Swan Christian College will be implementing improvements to the current pastoral care system in Middle and Senior School in 2018.

The College aims to develop and shape its students through continual evidence of faith and practice; building character through learning and discernment and, through application, challenging students to transition into living their faith as an informed, contributing adult in the world.

The provision of a strong and effective pastoral care system is central to this goal. It is our belief that effective pastoral care involves building positive, healthy and strong relationships, understanding the developmental needs of our students, and partnering with parents and caregivers.

While it is the role and responsibility of every staff member to care for students, in the main, pastoral care is provided through Pastoral Care Classes and the House System.

During Semester 1, the College reviewed the current system and practices to ensure that the needs of our students are met.

Mr Bergin and Mr Terry Eason consulted with the College Executive, teachers and Year 12 leaders. Additionally, they visited other schools and researched what is currently best practice in pastoral care. As the provision of pastoral care varies across different schools, they investigated what would be the best fit to improve pastoral care at our College in particular, to meet the needs of our students.

As a result, the following improvements will be implemented from 2018:

  • Current Heads of House will be replaced by Deans of Year who, together with their Pastoral Care teachers, will be responsible for the pastoral care and welfare of students within their year group. The Dean of Year will remain with the same group of students from Year 8 to Year 12.
  • Multi-year Pastoral Care classes (Year 7, 8, 9 and Year 10, 11, 12) will be replaced by house based single year Pastoral Care classes. PC teachers will remain with the same group of students from Year 8 to Year 12.
  • Pastoral Care classes will be comprised of approximately 19 students (compared to a current average of 27 students).
  • A scope and sequence for student wellbeing for Years 7-12 will be developed.
  • To enhance House spirit, the College will be appointing House Coordinators who will be responsible for organising all House based events.

Mr Bergin and Mr Terry Eason will present these changes at the Open Parent Night on Wednesday 23 August

Terry Eason
Deputy Principal / Head of Senior School

Please click on the following link to download the How to access Parent Lounge document:

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