Transition Program

Pre-arrival Support

Our Transition Program PC Head Start begins before your daughter steps onto campus. We aim to make the process as seamless as possible by providing detailed pre-arrival information for both students and parents.

PC Head Start is an interaction transition support program that is part of the process aiming to promote a sense of belonging through opportunities for connection with the Perth College community, prior to your daughter’s commencement. The program runs throughout Term 3 and 4 and includes all new boarders in all years groups, which enables students to build their network, fostering strong relationships prior to their entry to the school. We have designed the program so that we get to know each new boarder and make sure that she feels confident and comfortable prior to her start at Perth College.

Through both the online platform which families can explore in their own time and the weekly conversations via Teams, our future boarding families will learn information such as who are key staff in the day school and boarding house, gain information about co-curricular opportunities, school uniform, basic functioning of the boarding house and so much more. Each weekly conversation centres around a different theme of discussion and each week brings a different guest to meet, such as the Director of Sport, Head of Year 7, Head of InsideOut, our school nurse and counsellors, technology integration personnel, our Boarding Academic Coordinator, the Year 12 student executive, current students (including girls who were new this year) and much more!

Mentor Program

In addition, each new boarder is paired with a Year 11 mentor—a friendly guide who helps ease her into the boarding experience. Mentors undergo a process including writing an application, and interview and then formal leadership training during the semester prior to Year 11 so that they are ready for when your daughter starts at Perth College.

As well as meeting on PC Headstart and spending one on one time together at orientation, mentors will reach out and connect before the school year begins, answering questions and offering advice, so that new boarders arrive with a familiar face already waiting to welcome them.

Orientation and Settling In

When your daughter arrives at Perth College, she’ll be warmly welcomed into our comprehensive orientation program, designed to help her feel at home right away. She’ll have a chance to explore the campus, meet the boarding staff, and take part in fun activities (like and Amazing Race!) aimed at making new friendships, getting familiar with her surroundings and settling in comfortably.

One of the special things we do is give new boarders, Year 12s, and their mentors a head start, arriving a day before the rest of the students. This extra time allows them to settle in, get to know each other, and adjust to boarding life in a relaxed and supportive environment, with plenty of personal attention from our caring staff.

Our staff are experienced in supporting students through homesickness, which is a natural part of the transition to boarding school. With the support of their mentor, the Boarding House team, and pastoral care staff, students quickly adjust to their new environment, feeling at home in no time.

Ongoing Support

Our Transition Program doesn’t stop after the first few weeks. Throughout the year, new boarders receive continued support from both staff and their mentors. House meetings provide a space for students to discuss any concerns, celebrate milestones, and prepare for upcoming events. Our team closely monitors each girl’s wellbeing, offering guidance and support whenever it’s needed.

We also encourage strong communication with parents, keeping you informed of your daughter’s progress and wellbeing. Our online portal (SPACE) provides parents with regular updates and photographs, allowing you to stay connected with your daughter’s journey, no matter where you are.

Interested in Boarding at Perth College?

Discover the vibrant and supportive community that makes our Boarding House a place to belong, and a space to thrive. To learn more about life as a Perth College boarder or to arrange a personal tour, email our Enrolments Team today or call 08 9471 2100, we’d love to show you around!