Pastoral Care (PC) brings together all aspects of College life – academic, social, physical and spiritual. At its centre are quality relationships built on respect and care. Programs are in place to assist each student to develop into the best person they can possibly be. An underlying principle of Pastoral Care is that each student is an individual with particular needs, and it is the day-to-day care of each student and their needs, which is of paramount importance.
As well as the day-to-day care of students, PC Programs age appropriately address aspects of personal and social development, career education, health and wellbeing, financial literacy, study skills, cyber safety, personal organisation and time management.
Each student within St Benedict's College is a member of a PC Group and will have a PC Teacher. PC Teachers will come to know students in their PC Group well so that they can be given the best care and support possible. The PC Teacher is the College's first port of call for students and parents/guardians. All stages of schooling can present challenges and a PC group can offer support and encouragement during the difficult times and as well as celebrate the good times of life.
Guidance and Counselling Services
The effect of life's stressors on the personal, social and academic development of students is widely acknowledged. Schools exercise a central role in supporting and assisting student development by providing a guidance and counselling service. The College Guidance Counsellors work in partnership with the College community to promote and foster student development, mental health and resilience.
The Guidance Counsellor is available to meet with students, parents/guardians and staff to talk about concerns. This is a confidential service. An appointment can be made either by contacting the Counsellor directly or leaving a message with the office staff.
Behaviour Expectations
The community of St Benedict's College strives to provide a just and positive environment for the development of the student within the College and wider community. We encourage responsibility for personal decision-making and actions with respect for the rights and welfare of all. Our aim is to develop a sense of pride in oneself and the College community, striving for spiritual, intellectual, physical and cultural excellence.
Camps, Spirituality Days and Retreat
Camps and retreats are an important and compulsory part of the College curriculum. Students in each year level participate in Spirituality Days, a retreat and Pastoral Days each year.
- Year 7 Camp: This is an orientation camp focussing on students further developing their understanding of themselves, and others in their year level. It is activity based with an enormous focus on working as a part of a team and building resilience.
- Year 9 Camp: An outward bounds style adventure where the students camp in tents, carry/cook their own food, and hike, bike and paddle. It aims to build individual independence and resilience while at the same time teaching the importance of teamwork and cohort interdependence.
- Year 11 Camp: An in-centre leadership formation camp. It builds on the experiences of the past years to prepare these students for their position as Student Leaders in the College.
- Year 12 Retreat: Through invitation, students are called to live their life more fully. Throughout this Retreat they are invited to recall significant people who have formed them to be the people they are now and reflect on the future we hope them to become as they complete Year 12 and move beyond College life.
© Brisbane Catholic Education, St Benedict's College (2024)