From the Pastoral Office
Dear Parents and Caregivers,
As we welcome our new families in Years 5 and 7 to the College this year, students and parents alike can be comforted to know that many students have passed through the gates, under the Jacaranda trees of Stephens Road, sharing similar anxious energies and anticipation for future opportunities. I wish to thank all the Year 12 students for their assistance with the younger students, being their “transport buddies” for the first few days. Many stories have been received by the College of Year 12 students going above and beyond in their efforts to assist the younger boys, even walking them to the door of their house.
Our Year 12 students also helped our Year 7s settle in on their first day, acting as tour guides, helping organise lockers and helping the Heads of House induct students into their House.
Year 7 Alternate Program
This week our Year 7's have participated in numerous events, workshops and presentations helping them to learn the ‘Lauries Way’ and key staff who are there to assist in various departments. This coming week will be another busy week with our Year 7's experiencing camp, Retreat and an academic orientation day.
Commissioning of our Year 12 students.
On Friday this week, we will commission the Year 12 cohort as Seniors for 2026. The students will be presented with their Senior badges from a Middle School Leader and their Head of House. In addition, the 2026 student leadership group, will also be commissioned with their badges, presented by Mr Lowrie and accompanied by their parents. The Year 12’s have started the year extremely well and we hope they continue their good work in being leaders of our Lauries community.
Clinical Therapy Dog, Teddy
It is with great excitement that we introduce a new school initiative to support the health and wellbeing of students in our St Laurence’s College community. Our College Counsellor, Ms Tiffany Pritchard and her Clinical Therapy Dog, Teddy, have recently completed specialised training through Therapy Dogs Australia to become a certified human-canine therapy team.
Teddy is a 2-year-old Groodle with a soft curly coat considered hypoallergenic (low shedding of fur and dander). Research highlights the positive impact of animals on the physiological and emotional responses of humans. They can help reduce blood pressure, and cortisol levels whilst increasing oxytocin levels. As animals are non-judgmental and provide an unconditional love, Teddy will provide an opportunity for students to feel seen, heard and accepted no matter their story.
Teddy will initially work with Ms Pritchard 1 day per week in Counselling and will build Teddy’s capacity to enjoy other school events as he adjusts to the busy Lauries life. Interacting with Teddy is completely voluntary. If you do not wish for your child to interact with Teddy, please ensure you discuss this decision with your child and complete the non-consent form - HERE.
Principal’s Awards
The Merit System formally acknowledges and affirms those students who consistently model the behaviour of a 'Lauries Gentleman' and who make outstanding contributions across all areas of College life. Students will receive specific affirmations and awards following the accumulation of merit points.
All staff are able to award merit points and all students are able to receive merit points. Students will be awarded merit points across three dimensions of College life – Academic Achievement, Co-curricular Participation & Service to the Community.
In an upcoming assembly, College Principal Mr Ben Lowrie, will acknowledge these students who received 25 points or more in 2025. Congratulations gentlemen.
Date Claimers - Upcoming
- Monday 2 February – Year 8 & 9 Parent Information Night
- Wednesday 11 February – Senior School (Year 10-12) Information Night
Again, the Pastoral Team welcomes all students, whether they are returning or just beginning their Lauries journey. We walk with them as they journey to reach their version of excellence for 2026.
The pastoral team wishes all students the best in the coming weeks and as always....
Live Jesus in your hearts… Forever!
MR DAVID KNIGHT
Dean of Students