At St Gerard’s school we are committed to the pastoral care of our children. As a community we are concerned for the dignity and vital growth of each child as a person. The pastoral care in our school is firmly based on our Mission to witness Christ through compassion and respect. We work actively to assist the children to become confident and optimistic young people. 

Buddy Program
To ensure a smooth transition into school life, the senior Year Six students are paired off with a Kindergarten child. The Kindergarten class meet their new ‘Buddy’ during the Orientation process (the term before they actually begin school). Each Kindergarten child receives a photo and a letter from their new school friend over the holidays. They look forward to meeting their Buddy and feel secure that they will have someone of their own, to help them settle into school routines. The senior students take their role as Buddy seriously. They are trained up about the position and its responsibilities. It is a very successful program and has great benefits for both the Kindergarten child and the Buddy. 

Lunch Club
Lunch Club provides a small group situation where students have an opportunity to develop their social skills outside of the playground situation. They read, play games and talk. A teacher facilitates the club and children are able to bring along a friend each week. 

Seasons Grief Education Program
Loss and grief are issues that affect all of us at some stage in our lives. Even for young children this can be a reality.  The Seasons for Growth program supports children and adults who have experienced change in their lives due to death, separation or divorce. Seasons explores issues such as change, loss, managing feelings, coping strategies and support networks. It is an eight week program which includes an additional 'celebration' session. The program runs within the school hours.

St Gerard’s has two experienced teachers who are trained facilitators. We offer the program to those who request to be involved. It is suggested that children need a six month period to have lived through their loss before beginning the program.