student wellbeing
According to the Catholic Education Commission Victoria (CECV) Policy
“Pastoral Care of Students in Catholic Schools” pastoral care endeavours “ to
promote and enhance student wellbeing of a personal, social, physical,
emotional, mental or spiritual nature.”
Wellbeing is a state of positive functioning in various domains: cognitive,
emotional, social, physical and spiritual. For students this means that in their
general functioning they are able to flourish and learn, with a sense of
meaning, purpose and growth (Catholic Education Office).
The key elements of student wellbeing are:
- Positive relationships with peers and teachers.
- Positive feelings and attitudes much of the time.
- Resilience in the face of mistakes, failure, setbacks, difficulties and
social disappointments.
- Knowledge of one’s own strengths and a determination to do one’s best.
- High levels of satisfaction with the learning experience.
(Dr. Helen McGrath, Deakin University, 2009)
Wellbeing encompasses a holistic approach to working with young people. The
focus is on a person’s strengths and self management and support is available
for the person as s/he develops a personal value system and strong sense of
identity and self worth.
The College is committed to the whole development and wellbeing of each
student, not just as academic learners but in all aspects of their growth. The
College acknowledges that “enhanced student wellbeing contributes to improved
student learning outcomes”. Therefore, effective pastoral care promotes both the
personal and academic development of students.
This commitment to students is enacted through our Mission Statement,
Teaching and Learning Charter, structures, policies and programs, learning
environment and partnerships with families and the community. The Catholic ethos
underpins everything that we do. Student wellbeing is provided for through a
vibrant and contemporary curriculum, through structures, policies, programs and
professional learning for staff and students. The major frameworks incorporated
into the life of the College include Restorative Justice, National Safe Schools
and Health Promoting Schools.
Wellbeing structures include:
- Wellbeing Faculty
- Year Level Leaders
- Home Room Teachers
- Targeted Educational Programs
- Pastoral Curriculum
- Pastoral Programs
- Counselling Service
- Educational Support Faculty
- Careers Services
- School nurse
- Student Formation and Leadership
- Co-curricular and community service programs
