At Sancta, pastoral care is part of everyday College life, helping students feel confident and settled from the moment they arrive. Our approach recognises that academic progress, wellbeing and community are closely connected. Through a combination of professional staff guidance, peer support and structured programs, students are supported as they navigate college and university life. Support is available at any time and students are encouraged to reach out whenever they need advice, reassurance or practical assistance.
A connected network of support
The safety and wellbeing of students is a priority for every member of staff. This means that from the moment you arrive, you are part of a community where support is visible, accessible and taken seriously.
Sancta’s Pastoral Care team includes the Principal, Vice Principal, Dean of Students and Resident Assistants, who work together to support students throughout the year. These staff members also live onsite and are involved in the daily life of the College. Their presence ensures students have access to experienced guidance whenever needed.
Students may seek support with:
- Adjusting to university life
- Managing academic expectations
- Maintaining personal wellbeing
- Building friendships
- Navigating challenges or concerns
- Finding a sense of belonging
Resident Assistant (RA) Program
Resident Assistants are current students employed by the College to provide peer support and help foster a welcoming and inclusive community. Each student is allocated an RA each year and becomes part of a small RA group. This creates a consistent point of connection within the broader College community and helps ensure every student is known and supported.
RAs organise informal group gatherings throughout the year and meet individually with students each semester. These conversations provide an opportunity to check in, discuss how things are going and identify any support that may be helpful.
Every RA (and live-in staff member) is trained in:
- Physical first aid
- Mental health first aid
- Emergency evacuation procedures
- After-hours support and safety
- Pastoral support
- Creating opportunities to build community
