Boarding support and resources: Caring for your daughter every step of the way
POSTED January 8 2025 , Boarding
Starting at a boarding school is a significant transition for your family and your daughter, blending excitement with moments of uncertainty. As one of the top girls boarding schools in Perth and a leader among girls boarding schools in WA, St Mary’s is dedicated to making this journey as smooth and empowering as possible. From emotional wellbeing to academic support, our comprehensive network of resources ensures every boarder feels confident, cared for, and ready to thrive.
1. Pastoral care and wellbeing: A nurturing environment
At the heart of St Mary’s Boarding is a commitment to your daughter’s emotional wellbeing. We believe a strong support system is key to helping students feel at ease and flourish. Our team of staff is always available to listen, guide and provide the reassurance your daughter needs during her transition.
Peer support groups and House Mothers play pivotal roles in fostering a sense of belonging. Tess, a Year 11 boarder, shares, “Though I don’t come home to my parents and siblings every day, I return from school to a house full of friends and staff who have become like family over the last five years”.
Our caring staff cultivate a home away from home, creating an environment where every girl feels supported and valued. Whether your daughter needs someone to talk to or simply wants to share her day, our team is always ready to help.
2. House Mothers: A second family
A cherished aspect of St Mary’s Boarding is the presence of our House Mothers. These dedicated women provide guidance, nurture personal growth, and form strong, lasting bonds with every student.
Tia, a Year 9 boarder, highlights their importance, saying, “The ‘housies’ do their part by caring for us and trying their hardest to be a ‘mother-like’ figure in our lives. They are the people I can go to no matter what, to release my burdens, without the stress of them judging me”.
This unconditional support ensures every girl feels safe, understood and connected, even when she’s far from home.
3. Academic support: Helping your daughter succeed
At St Mary’s, we understand the importance of balancing academic excellence with emotional wellbeing. Our Boarding Academic Support Program provides a structured framework to help every student succeed.
From dedicated study sessions in the evenings to personalised tutoring, your daughter will have access to resources designed to boost her confidence and academic skills. Our Boarding Academic Support Coordinator and team of over 20 tutors are available to assist during prep time, ensuring she feels prepared for assignments and exams.
Sunday ‘Quiet Time’ offers additional opportunities for focused academic work, allowing boarders to start the week feeling organized and confident.
4. Cocurricular activities: Building friendships and confidence
Life at St Mary’s extends beyond academics, offering students a chance to build confidence, explore passions and form meaningful connections. As one of the leading girls boarding schools in Perth, we provide a wide range of cocurricular activities, from sports and drama to music and leadership programs.
Emmerson, a Year 12 boarder, shares, “When you’re coming as a new Year 7, never be afraid to talk to the other girls. All of you are going through the same thing together, and no one would push away a new friend.” This inclusive environment ensures that every boarder feels welcomed and supported.
Final thoughts
At St Mary’s, we are deeply committed to supporting your daughter’s growth, both academically and emotionally. As one of the most trusted girls boarding schools in WA, our nurturing environment ensures she feels confident, cared for, and part of a family. From the guidance of our House Mothers to the encouragement of her peers, every step of her journey will be filled with compassion and opportunity.