Empowering Academic Success in Boarding
An Interview with Colleen McManus, Boarding Academic Care Coordinator
At Santa Maria College, our boarding community is not just a place to live; it’s a dynamic environment where academic success is nurtured every day. We recently interviewed Colleen McManus, our dedicated Boarding Academic Care Coordinator, to delve into the incredible support system in place for our boarders. Colleen’s passion for education and her commitment to our students shine through as she shares insights into her role and the comprehensive academic care offered to our boarders at Santa Maria College. Join us as we explore how Colleen and her team empower our boarders to achieve their best.
What does your role as Academic Care Coordinator involve?
As the Academic Care Coordinator, my primary responsibility is ensuring that boarders are effectively utilising their study time, making me the most loved person in the boarding school, I’m sure! In essence, I lead a team of evening study tutors who assist boarders during dedicated study periods. We help them with homework, study skills, and problem-solving. I work closely with Jane Murray, Director of Boarding, and the Boarding Supervisors to support our students, especially those in Years 7-9 who might need a bit more attention. Senior girls typically contact me directly or use the academic support booking system for specific help. Regular catch-up sessions with study tutors are arranged for those needing consistent support. Communication with students and parents is also a vital part of my role.
How do you support the boarders academically?
Boarders have set study times from Monday to Thursday, and some time on Sunday evening, which varies depending on the year level. Consistency in these routines is invaluable for developing good study habits. For Years 7-9, study sessions are held in the Plaza from 6.30 pm to 8.00 pm, supervised by four staff members who provide academic support. We ensure a mix of humanities and maths/science tutors are available each night to cater to all students. Older students, being more independent, study in their rooms but can access help whenever needed.
How do you stay on top of any academic concerns?
Communication is key. Jane Murray, the Director of Boarding, collaborates with the Deans and boarding parents, passing on necessary information to me. Teachers and Deans also reach out directly via email, and boarding parents can contact me if needed. This streamlined communication ensures that any academic concerns are promptly addressed.
Tell us a little about your background as a teacher
My expertise lies in English and Literature, though I have taught Religious Education, Drama, and HASS. I’ve taught primarily in all-girls schools. I’ve had the pleasure of teaching at Santa Maria College since 1997, which I find incredibly rewarding. After a brief hiatus for family reasons, I returned to work as an evening study tutor, eventually transitioning into my current role. Growing up in country towns, I appreciate the unique dynamics of a boarding school and love working with our boarding students.
Can you tell us about the tutor program?
Our tutor program comprises dedicated teachers and university students. The teachers, many of them past students themselves, Carolyn Sharp (1986), Tania Merrey, Gemma Sharp (2016), Alexa Pagnoni (2013) and Charmaine Versluis (1977), are all highly experienced and generous with their time and expertise. University students Eva Quattrini (2018), Tahlia Fairhead (2021) and Grace McCormack (2021), are all currently studying medicine.
The tutors, ensure that students receive the help they need, whether it’s discussing a maths problem or brainstorming ideas for an assignment. Our goal is to foster a supportive environment where students feel comfortable seeking help, resembling a home-like study setting.
How can our boarding parents contact you if they have any academic concerns?
Boarding parents can reach me best via email at [email protected]
Thank you, Colleen, for shedding light on your role in supporting the academic success of our boarders. Your dedication and that of your team of tutors ensure that every student has the resources they need to thrive academically.
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Author: Santa Maria College
Santa Maria College is a vibrant girls school with a growing local presence and reputation. Our Mission is to educate young Mercy women who act with courage and compassion to enrich our world. Santa Maria College is located in Attadale in Western Australia, 16 km from the Perth CBD. We offer a Catholic education for girls in Years 5 – 12 and have 1300 students, including 152 boarders.
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