Pastoral System

Pastoral care encompasses every school activity. It is an ongoing practice involving the whole College community. Pastoral Care is concerned with the holistic development of every student; recognising this to include the personal, social, spiritual, academic, physical, emotional and cultural growth of each individual.

Staff, students and parents all have an important role to play in ensuring pastoral care appropriate to the needs of each child is given. The Pastoral Care system at Lumen Christi supports the College mission in endeavouring to assist students develop an attitude of self-discipline while coping with key areas of adolescent developmental. These include:

• the journey of faith
• the search for knowledge and truth
• the forming of values and principles for Christian living
• awareness of their own personal worth
• harmonious interaction with peers
• awareness of personal responsibility, especially in relation to learning
• the development of decision-making skills
• receiving support and accepting affirmation from others
• recognising gifts and differences.
• coping with family and cultural changes
• an understanding of self in relation to the world which leads to community involvement

For the teacher, pastoral care involves interaction with students in the classroom, the Homeroom, the sports field, in liturgical activities, in co-curricular activities and around the school generally.

As the one who has ongoing contact with a student throughout their school life the Homeroom teacher has a special pastoral role. The Homeroom base is the place where this teacher gets to know students and their needs. They become a source of guidance and help to individuals throughout their school life. If concerned about the behaviour or general welfare of a student a Homeroom teacher may enlist the support of a senior staff member. Should additional follow-up be required the services of our College Chaplain, Fr Francis Kot, can be called upon. Where necessary staff will contact parents to discuss pastoral needs and response strategies with parents.