Student welfare or school‑based pastoral care refers to the total care of the individual. Pastoral care is an important aspect of Oakhill College. At Oakhill College pastoral care practices are based on Catholic values and a belief in the uniqueness of each individual.
The role of pastoral care is to foster a passion for discovery; diversity and civic responsibility, while ensuring that every student’s spiritual, social and academic needs are met. Each student must have the opportunity to lead, develop their strengths and be given as much support as possible to overcome their weaknesses.
Through collaboration, open communication and guidance, students have the best possible opportunity to excel. To develop well-rounded individuals, a balanced approach to pastoral care is required.
Pastoral care refers to the total care of the individual and pastoral care is an important aspect of Oakhill College. At Oakhill College pastoral care practices are based on Catholic values and a belief in the uniqueness of each individual. Each student at the College is valued for their unique gifts and talents within a safe and nurturing environment.
Pastoral Care in the College operates within a six House system. On entry to the College, all students are allocated to a House. Years 7, 8, 9 and 10 students are grouped in horizontal pastoral care groups and Year 11 and 12 are grouped in vertical pastoral care groups. There are sixteen Tutor groups in Years 7 and 8; fourteen in Year 9 and twelve in Year 10. There are ten Tutor groups in Years 10, 11 and 12.
Each Year group from Years 7 to 10 have the same Dean, Assistant Year Deans, and Tutor Teacher for the four years. While Years 11 and 12 have a House Dean for their two senior years.
In this system, the Year Deans and Assistant Year Deans (Years 7-10), House Deans (Years 11‑12) and Tutor teachers are primarily responsible for the care and attendance of the students. In addition, there is a Director of Student Wellbeing and Management and three Counsellors, two full-time and one part‑time, along with a College Social Worker.
Our Pastoral Care Program is reviewed regularly to ensure it meets the needs of our students. All students at Oakhill College participate in a range of activities during their time at the College.
There are three main ways the College ensures every student is well known:
An age-appropriate Pastoral Care Program
Regular Tutor conversations with their Tutor teacher
Recognition of student achievement, contribution and excellence is the most effective approach to pastoral care. Affirmation of good conduct helps to develop self-esteem, well-being and self-efficacy, while nurturing a sense of belonging.
The following are offered at Oakhill College:
Teacher merits
Public recognition: in House Meetings, Cohort meetings, Tutor Groups, Assemblies etc
Oakhill Cup House Competition
Level Awards (further information is available in the Student College Diary)
Principal’s Morning Tea for outstanding service to the College (held once a semester)
As soon as students commence at Oakhill College, they are provided with decision-making and leadership opportunities. Some of the opportunities offered to our students are:
Student Representative Council
Tutor Group Captains
Cohort Leaders
College, House Captains, Lasallian, Music, Drama and Sports Captains
Lasallian Youth Leader
Sporting Leadership opportunities.
Oakhill College Houses
Oakhill's Houses are named after significant brothers. Each of the other Houses commemorates De La Salle Brothers who have contributed to our rich history and tradition.
