As a GSE College, we hold the care, safety and wellbeing of children and young people as a central and fundamental responsibility of our apostolic work. Every person who shares in the work of the College is responsible for promoting the inherent dignity of children and young people, and for upholding their fundamental right to be respected and nurtured in a safe school environment.

St Mary’s College commits to providing a safe and nurturing culture and learning environment for all children and young people. At all times, the ongoing safety and wellbeing of children and young people in our care will be the primary focus of care and decision-making, with particular attention paid to the safety and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people, children and young people from culturally and/or linguistically diverse backgrounds, and children and young people with a disability.

St Mary Star of the Sea College also commits to:

• taking into consideration the views of children and young people about decisions that affect their lives.
• empowering children and young people by taking their views seriously, and addressing any concerns they may have.
• acknowledging the cultural diversity of families and being sensitive to how this may impact on the wellbeing and safety of children and young people.
• taking proactive steps to prevent child abuse, and identifying risks early so that such risks may be removed or reduced.
• staying abreast of and meeting legislative requirements to protect the safety and wellbeing of children and young people.
• continuously reviewing and improving systems and practices to protect children and young people from abuse.
• taking prompt action when allegations of abuse are raised and ensuring that they are appropriately referred and investigated.
• providing children and young people with the knowledge and skills to understand and maintain their own personal safety.
• applying robust human resources and recruitment practices for all staff, contractors and volunteers.

Creating and nurturing child-safe school environments is a dynamic process that involves active participation and responsibility by St Mary’s College. It is marked by collaboration, vigilance and proactive approaches across policies, procedures, curriculum and operational practices.

To this end, St Mary’s College commits to:

• providing regular training and education to all employees on child abuse risks.
• implementing specific policies, procedures, training and a national Code of Conduct to support the achievement of child safety.
• ensuring that every person in our College understands the important and specific role they play, individually and collectively, to ensure the wellbeing and safety of all children and young people in their care.

At the beginning of her life at St Mary’s, each student is assigned to one of eight Houses: Bashir, Foley, Gibbons, Hayes, Kelly, Lyons, Sullivan, Ungunmerr-Baumann.

Our eight Houses are communities within the larger community of St Mary Star of the Sea. These Houses are points of welcome, of gathering, of prayer and of celebration. They give all of us ways to connect and to share our gifts in House activities.

Our House Patrons are eight women of faith, women of courage, women who chose to love their neighbours, women who in a range of spheres have dared to make a difference. Each House patron was selected very carefully to represent women who demonstrated the qualities of being a Good Samaritan in their lives. The values they possess are those which the students strive for and reflect our motto, 'I am born for higher things.'

The Kulilla Centre

Our School Counselling Service, the Kulilla Centre is dedicated to supporting the wellbeing and academic success of all students. We understand that school life can bring a range of challenges, and our team of Psychologists and Counsellors is committed to helping students navigate these with confidence and resilience.

What We Offer

Our School Counselling Service provides:

• Individual Counselling: One-on-one support for students to address personal, emotional, academic, or social challenges.
• Group Sessions: Facilitated groups focusing on topics like managing stress, building friendships, or improving study skills.
• Crisis Support: Immediate assistance during times of crisis or significant distress at school.
• Workshops and Presentations: Topics include mental health awareness, conflict resolution, and self-care strategies.
• Parental Guidance: Advice and strategies to help parents support their child’s wellbeing and education.

Our Approach

We use evidence-based methods, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), to support students’ mental health and personal development. Our client-centred approach emphasises empathy, active listening, and collaboration to set meaningful and achievable goals.

Why Access Counselling?

Students may seek counselling for various reasons, such as:

• Managing anxiety or stress
• Coping with grief or loss
• Enhancing self-esteem and confidence
• Addressing family or peer relationship challenges
• Navigating academic pressures

Confidentiality

We value and respect the privacy of our students. All counselling sessions are confidential, within the bounds of ethical and legal responsibilities. If any information needs to be shared for safety reasons, this will be discussed with the student beforehand where possible.

How to Access the Service

Students, Parents, or Year Coordinators can make referrals to the counselling service. It is recommended that you contact your Year Coordinator first to discuss your concerns. Referrals can also be made by contacting the Kulilla Centre via kulilla@stmarys.nsw.edu.au or completing the online referral form located in the Student Wellbeing Portal in Seqta.

We are here to listen, guide, and support every student to thrive both academically and personally. The Wellbeing of our students is our priority.