Pastoral Care may be defined as the expression of care in the school community, which brings together the diverse academic, social, physical and religious aspects of school life. It is love in action and invites all members of the school community to make choices based on the Gospel values of love and acceptance, inspired by Jesus the shepherd, a symbol of God’s unconditional love.

St Joseph’s Pastoral Care Policy is based on respect and responsibility. Affirmation and acknowledgement of positive choices and characteristics displayed by students are essential elements. By developing a sense of self worth, students become more tolerant and accepting of others and of the contribution everyone makes to our school. Students are encouraged to take responsibility for their actions and learn from their mistakes.

The school views pastoral care as underpinning the development of a school spirit which is welcoming, positive and creates a bond between students, staff and parents. Pastoral Care is an expression of the philosophy and vision of the school, reflected in the quality of daily relationships. It embraces all facets of the curriculum and is sustained by the values that respect the dignity of each person and the contribution they make to our school.

SECOND STEP PROGRAM

Second Step is delivered from K- 6 at St Joseph’s School and is a universal program designed to improve students' educational outcomes, school-readiness and peer relationships while decreasing problem behaviours by promoting social-emotional competence and self-regulation.

This holistic approach, delivered to students, builds a supportive community for every child through social-emotional learning experiences.

CENTACARE

Centacare Bathurst provides services for students at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School Portland to assist with emotional and social needs.

Centacare Bathurst is the official professional family and community services agency of the Catholic Church in the Diocese of Bathurst.  Centacare was established by the Bishop and Trustees of the Diocese in June 1988 as an expression of the social mission of the Catholic Church throughout the Diocese.

The work of Centacare is the living witness to the Christian values of charity, hope, love, and fullness of life. The Gospel, “I have come that you may have life and have it to the full”, (John 10:10) is the foundation for Centacare’s mission, vision and values.

For further information please refer to the Pastoral Care Policy in the Policy Section of the website.