Pastoral Care

St. Joseph’s College has developed a very strong, active culture of Pastoral Care for its students, which is strongly tied to the sense of family that has become synonymous with Terrace.

Our College strives to put at least five significant adults around each Terracian – from their core teacher, to their Tutor, to their House Dean to their sporting and cultural coaches and mentors, to name a few.

The House System has played a very significant role in our Pastoral Care structures and in the life of our College, and has been the basis for the Tutor Group and Year 12 “buddy” structures, which introduce and put together young and old students in supportive and communicative groups and forums.

Our Pastoral Care system also is strongly supported by our Retreat Program, the Campus Ministry and service programs from our Peer Ministry, and also the other College opportunities that are offered, especially via our Outdoor Education program.  It fosters student leadership and identity among our men.  Our Pastoral Care programs are monitored by the leaders and Deans of our College and in particular, the Dean of Students.

The Pastoral Care system at Terrace is unique and is consistently reviewed and developed to continue to enhance the educational experience of our students.  It has succeeded in making Terrace a “smaller place”, figuratively speaking, where students know and respect each other and where friendships transcend age groups and other barriers and the traditions and stories of our College continue to be passed down and enlivened.  

As a Catholic College in the Edmund Rice Tradition, our Pastoral Care structures are consistent with the spirit and ethos of our faith.  It is a strong incubator for the sense of belonging that endures among our Old Boys and gives students a sense of confidence to develop their individual personalities and gifts.