Diocesan School for Girls

Circles of Care extend pastoral support beyond classmates to include housemates, buddies, tutors, Deans, Chaplains and family. The school offers counselling, health and chaplaincy services, careers advice and personalised tutoring, with someone always available for care and guidance. Deans and year-based tutor groups meet daily to discuss wellbeing and individual goals. Circle Leaders and Orientation Leaders provide peer support for Year 7 students and new Year 9 students, while Buddies help newcomers settle in. Chaplains support faith and personal growth as an everyday part of school life, and the on-site Health Centre provides nursing care. Waiora provides additional learning and wellbeing pathways for all learners.

Waiora is the learning area that supports neurodiverse learners and those needing recovery or extension, offering individualised plans developed with whānau and staff. Support options include high and complex needs support, learning support classes, targeted short-term interventions and access to Special Assessment Conditions. Gifted and Talented programmes provide extension and acceleration opportunities, with Waiora staff mentoring students on accelerated pathways to balance challenge, wellbeing and success. The service partners with families and teachers to develop independence and confidence in learning.

The English Language (EL) Department helps international students feel welcome and safe and supports language acquisition alongside whole-school learning. English Language Learners (ELLs) are supported, with lunchtime tutorials and mentoring sessions available. EL teachers work closely with students daily to monitor progress and wellbeing.

Three counsellors are available to support staff and students. Chaplains nurture faith and personal growth and provide confidential care as part of everyday school life. The Buddy and Circle Leader systems offer peer support, and the Health Centre provides on-site nursing care for student health needs. The pastoral framework, including tutors and Deans, supports wellbeing and goal setting for every student.

The Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice provides schools with a framework for the care and support of students. The Pastoral Care Team, the Director of International Students and the International Student Support Coordinator provide comprehensive care for international students, ensuring a smooth transition. Regular international student meetings and one-on-one interviews throughout the year help assist students with settling into the school and receiving ongoing support.