Pastoral Care

At St Patrick’s College, every girl is known, supported and encouraged to grow into the fullness of who she is.

We believe that wellbeing is the foundation for learning, so we take a proactive approach to care that supports students in every part of their lives.

Our pastoral care and academic care models are closely interconnected. Together, they form a whole-school approach that nurtures each student’s personal and academic growth.

The school’s dedicated Pastoral Care staff understand how girls learn and develop, and work closely with them to build strong relationships, emotional confidence and a deep sense of purpose. Through structured programs and everyday interactions, students are guided to form healthy connections, grow in self-awareness and engage meaningfully with their learning and the wider community.

Fostering wellbeing

Student wellbeing is supported at the highest level of leadership. Our Assistant Principal – Students is dedicated solely to the care and development of our girls. As an expert in girls’ education, she works closely with students, staff and families to ensure every girl has what she needs to thrive. Her role strengthens our whole-school approach to wellbeing, providing strategic direction and personal connection.

Daily support in Pastoral Classes

Students begin each school day with Pastoral Class, a small, supportive group guided by a dedicated Pastoral Advisor. The Pastoral Advisor plays a key role in supporting students’ emotional and social wellbeing, ensuring they have a trusted adult to turn to each day who checks in with them about what’s happening for them inside and outside of school.

A qualified and caring Pastoral Team

A Year Coordinator and Pastoral Care Team is assigned to each grade, and these teachers work closely with students and their families to address their individual needs. This team plans community-building exercises and programs that encourage the girls to build friendships within their cohort, enhance their intrapersonal skills and feel connected to the College community.
House Groups: Sisterhood across year levels

The House system plays a vital role in shaping a close-knit and spirited school community. From the moment she joins the College, every girl is welcomed as a member of one of four House groups, each named after a trailblazing Australian woman whose life and legacy reflect the values we celebrate. Through their House, students take part in College-wide events like the Swimming and Athletics Carnivals, as well as friendly competitions, pastoral initiatives and fundraising efforts that support Good Samaritan ministries. These experiences help girls grow in confidence, take on leadership roles and build meaningful connections with friends across year levels.

Learn about our House Patrons
Professional support on campus

Students have access to highly experienced trained psychologists and counsellors who specialise in adolescent support. They provide confidential, professional counselling to students, offering a safe space for them to discuss challenges and develop practical strategies to support their day-to-day wellbeing.
Student mentorship program

The Big Sister–Little Sister Program fosters meaningful connections between Year 11 and Year 7 students, providing a supportive mentorship experience. Each Year 7 student is paired with a Year 11 ‘big sister’ who offers guidance and friendship throughout the year. Through a series of purposeful activities, this program helps younger students transition smoothly into College life while cultivating leadership and empathy in our senior girls.