What our parents say about Fintona

The pastoral support has been outstanding and is of great importance to my regard for the school.

Pastoral Care

A strong sense of belonging in the Fintona family

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At Fintona, we believe that citizens of tomorrow require a broad education encompassing academic knowledge and emotional intelligence. They must build resilience, positive self-esteem and a respect for all mankind and the environment.

The care and development of the whole person is a critical value which underpins the Fintona ethos. Through the role modelling of staff, girls build an intrinsic respect for each other and develop a sense of care and responsibility for all.

Our pastoral care program pervades every aspect of our curriculum and is delivered by Tutors, House Teachers, Heads of School and a School Counsellor. Through this nurturing approach we cultivate a strong sense of belonging in the Fintona family.

Being a small school, the Staff is able to monitor closely the academic, social and emotional progress of all students, both informally and in pastoral meetings, which are held regularly for each year level. From these discussions, appropriate actions are planned in liaison with families.

To monitor academic progress, Fintona employs a Longitudinal Testing Program, introduced in Junior School. In Year 7, we commence a Study Skills Program to prepare girls for the rigours of homework and revision. Where a need is indicated, extra support is provided in order to maintain positive self-esteem as a learner.

Social and emotional growth inquiries are embedded in the units of study which run from Kindergarten to Year 6. Years 7 to 12 girls continue their pursuit of these understandings in all aspects of school endeavour but more specifically in their Life Skills classes, where staff and guest speakers aim to broaden understanding of self and society.

Forums are held for parents and girls to address the physical, social and emotional needs and understandings of their rapidly changing world.

A trained counsellor is available to support girls on an individual basis.