Senior Secondary Home Groups

What a privilege it is to meet with a group of senior students first thing each morning in home group. I have really enjoyed the opportunity to get to know a small group of students considerably better. 

Since we changed to the new vertical pastoral care model in Senior Secondary at the beginning of 2024, students have been in the same home group through Years 10, 11 & 12. As much as possible we have also kept the same staff members with each group. In doing so, we have tried to establish a program that encourages continuity of care for our students and to provide more opportunities for students to feel that they are known, valued and connected. 

The vertical structure also enables students to form stronger relationships outside their year level. When there are particular needs in a year group, for example the Year 12 exams, the others in the group are able to pray and encourage their fellow students, and also get a ‘taste’ of life for others in the school.

What does a typical week look like in a senior home group? 

While groups can vary in the way they organise their time and structure, the following outline will give you some insight. 

Monday (25min):

• Secondary assemblies, or
• House assemblies, or
• House activities – an opportunity for students to interact within their House group and also challenge other House groups, or
• Special event/theme activities – Science week, Environment week, PE week

Tuesday (15min):

• Student led activity – students individually or in groups lead an activity for the home group. This could be a ‘get to know you’ activity or a student led devotion.

Wednesday (15min):

• ‘Small groups’ – The home group is divided into 4 smaller groups. Each group gets to meet with one of the home group teachers once a fortnight. Because the group is smaller, it is a great opportunity to engage in some more in-depth discussion around topics such as values, faith, identity, and how we connect with one another.
• ‘House huddle’ – On the week that the students are not in small group, they spend some time with their Head of House. This is an opportunity for the Head of House to have regular contact with the students in their care.

Thursday (15min):

• Teacher led devotion and prayer

Friday (15min):

• Fun Friday! – Games or trivia or mini competitions etc.

Home groups are just another way that we can pastorally care for our students at DCC. To start the day with the same familiar faces, with a cheerful “Good morning!”, meaningful interactions and then being able to pray to start the day, is so worthwhile.