Beyond the range of campus based programs, the College enviroment affords students extra opportunites that support their wellbeing and development.
Volunteering
Stemming from the success of the volunteering program, a Stage 5 elective "Volunteering and Community" Board Endorsed Course has been developed by two college teachers. It is currently being offered at both 7-10 campuses as a two-year elective for Years 9 and 10 students. The course requires students to undertake both theoretical study of volunteering and its role in the community and also regular volunteering fieldwork both at school and in the local community.
Pastoral Care
Great Lakes College has two Pastoral Care (youth) workers. These youth workers are accessible to student who wish to seek their support. Their time is spent between the three campuses, running a lunch time program called the ‘Edge'. They are involved in recess and lunch time mentoring with students and are also involved in welfare programs such as the ‘Chill Out' breakfast program (Forster Campus), Seasons for Growth, Ripple Effect and assist at whole day activities like Girls' Together, National Day against Bullying, Careers Days and Anti-Bullying programs. They also attend Barclay Gardens Nursing Home as part of the volunteering sport option with students.