Pastoral Care at Mary MacKillop College

Supporting Each Student’s Journey At Mary MacKillop College, our Pastoral Care Program is at the heart of our mission to nurture, guide and empower each and every student. Rooted in the values of compassion, resilience and faith, our program provides a structured and holistic approach to student wellbeing, ensuring that each girl feels supported, valued and prepared for her future.

Our Pastoral Care Program is designed to grow with our students, addressing their evolving needs at each stage of their journey

A Year-Level Approach to Growth

Year 7
I am a connected MacKillop girl – Building relationships and fostering a sense of belonging.
Year 7 Building Connections Camp – A two-night camp focused on developing friendships, confidence and a strong sense of belonging as students begin their secondary school journey.

Year 8
I am an optimistic MacKillop girl – Cultivating a positive mindset and self-belief.
Year 8 Optimistic Adventure Days – A series of three dynamic, outdoor-based days designed to build optimism, teamwork and personal growth through challenge and reflection.

Year 9
I am a resilient MacKillop girl – Developing perseverance and emotional strength.
Year 9 The Rite Journey Camp – A one-night experience tailored to help students as they begin their Rite Journey learning.

Year 10
I am a compassionate MacKillop girl – Encouraging empathy and social responsibility.

Year 11
I am a persistent MacKillop girl – Strengthening determination and goal-setting skills.

Year 12
I am a self-assured MacKillop girl – Preparing for independence and leadership beyond school.

A Comprehensive Curriculum

Each year level follows a thoughtfully curated sequence of topics aimed at personal development and wellbeing

Term 1
Understanding Self – Exploring identity and embracing the college theme.

Term 2
Understanding Others – Navigating relationships and responsible social media use.

Term 3
Planning My Future – Career exploration, micro-credentials and protective practices.

Term 4
Outreach and Social Justice – Engaging with Catholic charities and community service.


Daily and Weekly Pastoral Care Structure

Each morning, students attend Pastoral Care Class with their Pastoral Care Teachers, providing a consistent and supportive start to the day. Additionally, on Thursdays, there are two dedicated Pastoral Care Lessons, allowing for deeper engagement in pastoral activities and discussions.

Anti-Bullying and Harassment Policy

Mary MacKillop College is a Josephite community which fosters Gospel values and a Christian understanding of people’s mutual responsibilities for each other, an acceptance of difference and an awareness of justice and equality. Bullying and harassment undermines positive relationships and our College ethos.

The College has developed an Anti-Bullying and Harassment Policy which is designed to promote, implement and create a safe environment for all members of the Mary MacKillop College community. Families can access this via the SEQTA Engage portal.

Whole School Engagement

Our commitment to pastoral care extends beyond the classroom through a range of engaging whole-school events, including:

Good News Assemblies – Celebrating student achievements and fostering positivity.

Retreats and Masses – Strengthening faith and reflection.

Awards Assemblies – Recognising hard work and dedication.

Guest Speaker Programs – Featuring experts from Encounter Youth, Brainstorm Productions and RAP programs.

MacKillop Connection Program – Enhancing cross-year support and mentoring.

Opportunities for Growth and Extension

To further support personal development, our students have access to a range of special programs:

Years 7 and 8
Real Life, Real Friends and Children’s University

Year 9
The Rite Journey

Year 10
Careers and Futures, Canberra Trip, Duke of Edinburgh Award and the St Capitiano Program

Year 11
Duke of Edinburgh Award and the Self-Defence Program

Year 12
Duke of Edinburgh Award

Children's University at Mary MacKillop College

Our collaboration with the University of Adelaide helps students explore pathways beyond the classroom and develop a strong sense of purpose and contribution:

Years 7 and 8
Passport to Learning – Students are encouraged to continue building on the learning hours they began in primary school, promoting lifelong learning and engagement.

Year 9
Passport to Volunteering – A meaningful initiative that inspires students to give back to their communities, build service hours and discover the value of active citizenship.

At Mary MacKillop College, our Pastoral Care Program ensures that each student thrives academically, socially and emotionally. We believe that a strong foundation in wellbeing is the key to success and we are committed to walking alongside our students on their journey to becoming confident, compassionate and empowered young women.