Pastoral Care

Every student at St Mary’s College is known, valued, and supported. Our Pastoral Care Team is led by Deputy Principal Elena Grant, and includes Deans, Learning Support, Counsellors, Careers Advisors and the School Nurse.

The Mercy tradition of “love in action” is key to the conduct and pastoral care expected at St Mary’s College. Through affirmation of the positive qualities of each student, we aim to produce articulate, vibrant, confident, self-disciplined, and motivated Christian women with strong leadership qualities.

Deans

Each year level, from Year 7 to Year 13, is managed by a Dean, who is responsible for the overall pastoral and administrative needs and care of students at that level. The Dean for each level works closely with Form and Class Teachers, who form the basis of the pastoral network and provide day-to-day care for students in their class.

Counsellors

St Mary’s College provides access to qualified school counsellors who offer confidential support for students navigating personal, social, or emotional challenges. Our counselling team works alongside families and staff to ensure every student has the support she needs to thrive.

Learning Support

The Learning Support team provides support for students with additional learning needs. We recognise that our students are unique and present with a wide range of learning needs, and are constantly researching alternative teaching approaches and strategies to enhance our students’ success. Progress and interventions are discussed and reviewed by a multi-disciplinary team during fortnightly Diverse Needs meetings.

Please contact Lorraine Evening, Head of Learning Support, should you wish to discuss support for your daughter’s learning needs.

Wellbeing

Student wellbeing sits at the heart of everything we do. Through our pastoral care structures, chaplaincy, counselling services, and strong staff-student relationships, we work to create a school environment where every young woman feels safe, supported, and ready to learn. Should a pastoral care concern arise, families can speak with their daughter’s Dean, Deputy Principal Elena Grant, or any member of staff.

Compassionate Fund

The St Mary’s College Compassionate Fund financially supports families in our community facing hardship – the loss or long-term illness of a loved one, redundancy, or the rising cost of living – providing a contribution directly towards subject fees, uniform, and stationery expenses. This compassionate care reflects our Mercy values, and every donation helps the fund reach more of the families who need it most.