Pastoral Care in Catholic schools is best described as the “integration of the academic, social and religious dimensions of a school’s energy so that an atmosphere of care prevails within the school community”. (Treston, 1989).

“It is inspired by the life of Jesus who is the example the school community follows through its commitment to the values of compassion, tolerance, forgiveness and reconciliation”. (Catholic Education Commission, Victoria 1994).

Pastoral Care at St Joseph’s College has its focus on the development of the whole person – spiritual, moral, emotional, intellectual, physical, social and aesthetic. All persons are unique and worthy of respect. We recognise the individual gifts of all students, and our College welcomes all those who seek Catholic education regardless of social and economic status or ability. We emphasise participation and involvement of all members of the College community, past and present.

Pastoral Care occurs when a personal interest is taken in each student. To enable this, each student is a member of a Homeroom group in the care of a Homeroom teacher. Homeroom groups meet at the beginning of each day, for Religious Education lessons, and for one period per week during which a formal pastoral program in which issues relevant to the age and stage of development of the boys are addressed. Each Homeroom is supported by the team of Homeroom teachers and Year Level Co-ordinators.

When parents have a concern about their son’s welfare or educational progress, their first contact would normally be with the Homeroom teacher. This pastoral structure is supported by the Deputy Principal responsible for Pastoral Care, and the College Counsellor.

While the Pastoral Care team consists of Homeroom Teachers, Year Level Co-ordinators, Deputy Principal and College Counsellor, we believe that Pastoral Care is the responsibility of the whole school community.

The College Counsellors are an integral part of the Pastoral Care team. Specifically the College Counsellor provides:

• a professional counselling service for individual students.
• consultations with parents and staff.
• targeted programs to meet student needs.
• advice and referral to support services available in the local community.
• support for the delivery of the Pastoral Programme which is intended to be preventative in nature.

Students can self refer or may be referred by staff or parents.

The College Counsellor can be contacted through the General Office or on 5226 8115.

If you require immediate assistance please phone one of the following agencies:

• Lifeline: 131114 (24 hour service)
• Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800 (24 hour service)
• Clockwork Young Peoples Health Service: 5222 6690