St Eugene College has a comprehensive pastoral care structure supporting students from Prep through to Year 12. Student needs are closely monitored within each phase of learning, with strong communication between class teachers, Guidance Counsellors and Pastoral Care teachers to ensure every student is supported in their development and in times of need.
In the secondary years (7–12), this support is strengthened through a house-based pastoral care model. Students are part of one of four houses: Carroll, Mitchell, Ryan or Dunlea, and Pastoral Care (PC) classes are organised within these houses, bringing together students from across all year levels. This vertical structure fosters a strong sense of belonging and community, allowing students to build meaningful relationships beyond their immediate peer group.
A key benefit of this approach is the integration of students from Years 7–12 within PC classes. Older students provide guidance, leadership and mentorship, while younger students gain confidence, support and a sense of security. These shared experiences promote collaboration, strengthen relationships and encourage the transfer of knowledge and life skills across year levels.
An important element of this structure is the Buddy Program, which pairs Year 7 students with Year 12 students within their house. A staggered start to the school year allows these connections to be intentionally established, helping students build strong relationships from the outset. With lockers located near each other, these connections are reinforced daily, creating a supportive and familiar environment for younger students as they transition into secondary school.
The transition from Year 6 into Year 7 is a significant milestone, with students joining St Eugene College from both our primary setting and a range of surrounding schools. We recognise that this move into secondary school can be challenging for all students as they adjust to new routines, expectations and environments. Pastoral Care plays a vital role in supporting this transition, ensuring every student feels welcomed, connected and supported from the outset. A dedicated Middle Leader oversees the transition process, supported by targeted structures such as a regular Year 7 Monday morning check-in, a designated Year 7 play area during breaks to build confidence and friendships, and “Fun Friday” activities where music is played and senior students engage with their buddies through games and shared experiences. These intentional supports help ease the transition and foster a strong sense of belonging within the College community.
Pastoral Care within the College targets making a difference and, in doing so, aims to foster a climate of tolerance and equity. We positively acknowledge ethnicity and gender, and students are encouraged to respect and value individual differences. Within the school environment, we promote co-operative learning in the classroom and co-operative play in the playground.
Pastoral Care is a central part of the College’s holistic approach to student development. It supports not only academic growth, but also the social, emotional and spiritual wellbeing of each student.
Pastoral Care aims to help students to:
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Be respected for their different needs, abilities, cultures, gender, interests and dreams;