School based Pastoral Academic Care (PAC) at O’Connor refers to the care of the whole person. It is based upon the belief in the dignity of the person. Research ( Jacqueline Van Velsen, CEO WISA Wellbeing in Schools Australia) indicates that students with high levels of wellbeing are more likely to achieve high academically and complete school, have better health, and have greater participation in the workforce. Wellbeing is everyone’s business.

O’Connor’s Pastoral Academic Care program is based on this evidence that learning and wellbeing are inextricably linked. Our PAC Program includes coaching, learning conversations and goal setting. The PAC teacher plays a very important role in monitoring and building wellbeing. The Student Diary is based on a strengths based approach. It emphasises the strengths that people have and how they build their strengths in other areas. The key elements of the student diary are: Positive Engagement; Meaning and Purpose; Skills and Achievement; Relationship and Optimism; Strengths and Emotions; and Exercise and Health. These are the key elements needed to strive, thrive and flourish.

At O’Connor, each PAC class has two staff allocated. This allows for administration (rolls marked, daily notices etc to be done) to occur while learning conversations occur. PAC runs from 8.50 – 9.10 every day. PAC time is with both PAC teachers and has a focus on Resilience and coaching. Are students set up for the day? Do they have books, device, equipment etc.