Pastoral care is a priority at Somerville Baptist College.

The foundation of the pastoral care lies within the Form class and with the Head of Year. Both the Form Teacher and Head of Year are available for consultation where students are experiencing difficulties or have questions. Students are also free to consult with any preferred staff member regarding pastoral matters. This may then be referred back to the Head of Year as the contact person for that student.

The Head of Year is available to all students in that year level and will coordinate special programs, where necessary, to monitor the student’s progress (academic, behavioural). The Head of Year is a liaison person in dealing with the parents and teachers of the students.

The Principal coordinates the pastoral care for all students.

When required a counsellor is available for students. This is undertaken by appointment through the Head of Year or Administration. Counselling is confidential and the counsellor is also available to work in coalition with staff regarding the needs of the students.

Somerville staff are regularly in-serviced regarding students’ issues including specific learning disabilities, special needs, social/emotional development, as well as issues such as youth suicide, substance abuse and basic counselling/listening skills.

The College has a crisis plan in the event of an emergency situation, which includes provision for the care of all students, including support and counselling.