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Pastoral care is a demonstration of profound respect for the human dignity of each person who is created in the image and likeness of God (Genesis 1: 26–27). This call to respect each person is inspired by the sacred Scriptures and brought to life by the person of Jesus Christ. Pastoral Care incorporates all elements of a personal, social, intellectual, physical, emotional or spiritual nature.
At Emmaus College, all relationships, including those with students, staff and parents/guardians/carers, are built on unconditional positive regard. Every person has a responsibility to understand the integral role they play, individually and collectively. For staff, nurturing the pastoral care, wellbeing and safety of all children and young people is at the forefront of all we do and every decision that we make. ‘Pastoral care’ is brought to life through the actions, interactions and attitudes of all community members. It is evident in our vision and mission statements, policies, procedures, curriculum, student support services and partnerships with parents, who are the first educators of their children
A safe and inclusive school culture is developed through positive relationships, and this is central to all that we do. Healthy student and teacher relationships are fostered through pastoral care time and through our teaching. Student-peer relationships are established in classes, during recess and lunchtime and through school and co-curricular activities. As such, the College places high value on student involvement in the EISM sports program, Chess Club, Camps, Debating, Overseas Immersions, and the annual College Production, just to name a few.
Our Pastoral Care curriculum teaches students the social and emotional skills they need for life. Our Student Leadership and Peer Support Programs develop skills such as leadership, confidence, courage, creativity and curiosity. Our students are also involved in Community Service and Social Justice activities throughout the year, building their empathy and gratitude. Students who need specific personal support can access our Psychology and Counselling Services.
Key elements of our Pastoral Care program foster student wellbeing through positive self-regard, respect for others, positive relationships, responsible behaviours and personal resilience.
The Pastoral Care Program is a dedicated learning program that is scheduled in the timetable each week.
The pastoral care of each student is integral to academic and personal growth and is therefore central to everything we do. Our vision is for students to feel safe, respected and supported during their time at Emmaus College. By fostering physical, intellectual, emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing, we focus on the student as a whole and place time and focus on supporting their growth and learning journey.
The pastoral care program comprises age and stage-appropriate sessions that build on the personal and social capabilities of our students through an evidence-based programs. Underpinning the program is the value and importance we place on building strong connections within the school community. This begins with the vertical pastoral groups in the Middle and Senior schools, where students from across year levels come together, and where explicit positive role modelling from older students supports the growth and understanding of younger students.
Pastoral Care classes have an explicit focus on current and contextual topics, sometimes involving guest speakers and presenters with specific areas of expertise on relevant issues around wellbeing.
Our Houses System provides an additional level of belonging to enhance the wellbeing of all students. Every student is allocated to one of four Houses where they are named and known by Pastoral Teachers, House Leaders and Directors. They have experiences in common, such as House Competitions, House Feast Days, and House Assemblies.
Emmaus College has three Student Councils, a Junior School (Prep - Year 6), Middle School (Years 7-9) and Senior School (Years 10-12) chaired by the Junior School College Captains (Year 6), College Vice Captains (Year 11), and College Captains (Year 12) respectively.
Our Student Councils meet regularly and are involved in the planning of many school events such as Open Day, Emmaus Day, fundraising ventures, theme day activities, etc. Students in leadership roles also participate in planning House events with their respective House Leaders, and they make themselves available to represent the College as required.
Students also have the opportunity to nominate to be a Captain or member of one of the committees (Liturgy, Arts, Environment, Social Justice, Wellbeing, FIRE Carrier and Academic) or to be considered for a House Captain role, with a male and female Year 6 and Year 12 student filling the House Captain roles for each House.
Student leaders proudly uphold College expectations by example and by the encouragement of other students. They foster a spirit of welcome, cooperation and acceptance in the College community. Student leaders encourage a positive and inspiring culture of learning and a steadfast dedication to academic pursuits. Student leaders encourage all students to participate in the co-curricular life of the College, and they act as a liaison between students and the College Leadership Team to make suggestions on behalf of the student body.
The College Psychologists possess a wealth of psychological and educational knowledge and expertise to support students to achieve academic success, psychological health, and social and emotional wellbeing. The primary services provided to students include individual counselling, small-group workshops, and the implementation of wellbeing promotion activities.
Counselling can be provided to students when issues of a psychological nature interfere with the normal progress and wellbeing of the student in the school setting. Individual appointments provide students with the opportunity to have a conversation with a mental health expert within an atmosphere of trust and confidence. The service offers a short-term solution-focused approach to help students confidently build their personal capacity to meet challenges. College Psychologists also assist in referring students to appropriate agencies or external supports should that need arise, such as for longer-term support.
Group interventions are facilitated regularly throughout the year. This type of support provides an effective and positive way of delivering direct services to students alongside their peers.
The College Psychologists also provide consultation and advice to teachers, House Leaders, Directors and Deputy Principals concerning student welfare and management, and contribute to whole-school prevention, intervention and post-intervention programs that aim to increase students’ wellbeing.
The College Psychologists contribute to the Parent Forum Series held across Prep to Year 12, presenting to parents through interactive sessions on topics that are relevant to the stage and age of the students. Their wealth of knowledge within a school setting allows for evidence-based insights on how parents can support their child's learning and emotional journey at the College.
In accordance with College policies and objectives, the Careers Counsellors provide guidance and support to students, their parents and staff to help students develop a positive self-concept, obtain increased control over their lives and maximise career possibilities.
A major source of online resources on career options is our dedicated careers website, emmcareers. It provides a wide range of information covering all aspects related to the career development of students.
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Emmaus College acknowledges the Wurundjeri People as the Traditional Custodians of this land and pays respect to their Elders past, present and emerging.
Emmaus College promotes the safety, wellbeing and inclusion of all children and young people.
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