Student Care & Wellbeing

At Xavier College, students are supported in a framework called the ‘House System’. The aim of the House system at our Senior School is to provide each student with a “Home” – a place in the school where he belongs, is known and is appreciated. A place where he can flourish into the best version of himself possible.

In Years 7 and 8, students begin their journey in a horizontal Homeroom where they are supported by their Homeroom teacher, meeting at the commencement of every day, and building relationships with their peers in their Year level.

From Year 9 onwards, students commence in a ‘vertical’ structure, where their Tutor Group is made up of Year 9, Year 10, Year 11 and Year 12 students. This vertical structure allows for connection and mentorship of younger students as they journey together. Tutor Groups meet three times a week, with the remainder of the days dedicated to ‘Community Time’ as an entire House community.

Each House: represents a significant connection to the Jesuit tradition, and those who have dedicated their lives to the service of others. Our Houses include Bellarmine, Cheshire, Claver, Gonzaga, Ignatius, Mackillop,Mannix, Regis, Ricci and Spinola.

During House Community Time on scheduled Friday mornings, students are invited to gather in the Chapel for Voluntary Mass — a quiet, reflective space where the community comes together to listen, pause, and be present.

At the heart of this tradition is a Year 12 student who shares a personal reflection - often a story of growth, challenge, or gratitude. In these moments, the Chapel becomes a place of deep connection, where vulnerability is met with respect, and silence speaks volumes. This models the importance of vulnerability and resilience in young men to develop a healthy approach to relationship with God and with each other.

At Xavier, we are committed to developing young people who are balanced, compassionate, resilient, and faith-filled. Our care and wellbeing programs are designed to support every student’s growth - academically, emotionally, and spiritually.

In Year 9, students engage in a year-long class entitled ‘Personal Formation’. The Victorian Curriculum ‘Rights & Respectful Relationships’ forms the basis of this class, with our Ignatian context built into ensuring that young people are taught the importance of healthy and respectful relationships. The curriculum is divided into two main areas: 'self awareness’ and ‘relationships’.

Our dedicated counselling teams at both the Junior and Senior campuses provide confidential, compassionate support for students. We work collaboratively to safeguard mental health and promote wellbeing in a safe, respectful environment. Our Heads of House, Assistant Heads of House and Tutors provide support and care that if necessary, may be referred for further conversation with a member of our Wellbeing Team.

The House system works in collaboration with teaching staff, Wellbeing, Health Care and Diverse Learning staff in support of each student.