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Known, nurtured, loved

FROM OUR PARTNERS AT ST LEONARD’S COLLEGE: 

Each student is an individual, with individual interests, experiences and learning styles. At St Leonard’s College, a new Mentor Program has been introduced to support each student to be the best they can be.

The Mentor Program runs throughout a student’s life at St Leonard’s, from their first day of school to their final exam preparation in year 12.

In the Junior School, classroom teachers act as Mentors for their students, looking out for their educational and emotional wellbeing, and creating a safe, nurturing and happy environment. A Junior School teacher becomes a student’s ‘second mum or dad’ during the school day, encouraging them to take risks, learn and grow.

From Years 5 to 12, each student is allocated to a home room: a small group of students who meet regularly with one teacher – their mentor. Mentors are responsible for monitoring the academic, social and emotional progress of each student in their home room. Mentors get to know the strengths, weaknesses, interests and dislikes of the students, and work with them and their parents to help them reach their personal goals.

“It has long been recognised that a key protective factor of young people is a relationship with a trusted adult, often a teacher,” said Dr Deborah Trengove, Director of Pastoral Care at St Leonard’s College.

“Relationships are at the centre of our model of pastoral care and the Mentor’s role is pivotal in this context, focusing on each individual student according to their interests, abilities and potential for personal growth.”

Topics covered in the Mentor Program include healthy habits, study strategies and stress management, with a particular focus on developing a growth mindset. Mentors also make regular contact with parents, forming a strong partnership to ensure each student is supported and equipped to reach their full potential.

“Mentors bring many skills to their role: encouraging, advising, organising, teaching and listening. This is based on an interest in each individual child and a commitment to knowing that child in a genuine, holistic manner.”

“Our young people are encouraged to create the best version of themselves, supported by Mentors in partnership with parents.”

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