Students & Wellbeing

Caring in a changing landscape

Usually, my articles in The Dragon focus on the daily life of St George’s Anglican Grammar School. This time, however, I want to step back and consider Pastoral Care and Wellbeing from a broader, national perspective—and reflect on how this shapes our approach at St George’s.

Across Australia, high schools are experiencing increasing wellbeing challenges. National data shows that almost one third of secondary students experience high levels of depression or anxiety, and a 2025 national survey reported a 19% year-on-year increase in cases of anxiety and depression. Research also indicates that mental health concerns rise steadily from Year 7 to Year 10, with girls and gender diverse students reporting significantly higher levels of psychological distress than boys.

Bullying and safety remain ongoing concerns for all schools nationally, with approximately one in three students reporting being bullied monthly and more than a quarter saying they do not often feel safe at school in a recent national survey. In addition, 50–55% of students are considered at risk of disengagement due to high anxiety levels and avoidant coping behaviours, with only a minority consistently reporting they are ready to learn. The statistics paint a depressing picture of the society in which we are living. 

These statistics highlight why strong, relational Pastoral Care is more important than ever. At its heart, Pastoral Care is about knowing our students well—understanding their strengths, recognising early signs of struggle, and walking alongside them through challenges giving them options and choices and a different pathway to tread should they choose to take it. It is not simply reactive support, but proactive, daily connection: mentoring conversations, House involvement, classroom relationships, collegial conversations, early connections and creating environments where students feel safe and seen.

 At St George’s, we are intentionally strengthening this work. Initiatives such as Phone Pouches, Pulse, access to SchoolTV, and the support of our amazingSchool Counsellor all forms part of a broader, whole-school pastoral framework focused on early intervention, mental health literacy, and student belonging. By understanding the national landscape, we can respond locally with care and clarity—ensuring our Pastoral Care program continues to support every student to feel connected, supported, and ready to thrive. As we continue to say, Everyone Matters at St George’s. 

Special Pastoral Care event for Year 7 & 8 parents - do join us!

This month parents and carers of Year 7 &8 students are invited to meet our  Pastoral Care staff including Heads of House, Dean of Students and Wellbeing and Executive Staff for afternoon tea, followed by an insightful discussion about teenage years led by author and regular visitor to our school, Claire Eaton. Please book now for catering purposes and we look forward to seeing you at school for tea and scones and our guest talk on Wednesday, 18 March at the Murray Street Campus.

https://www.trybooking.com/DJSOW

Mr Ian Thompson

Dean of Students & Wellbeing