Pastoral Care Leaders (PCLs) at St Andrew’s are students, second year or older, who undertake additional training to provide emotional support to their fellow students through their time in College. As transitioning into university life is challenging for some, the support offered can be invaluable.
Meet Henry Wines (Fr 2021), one of our PCLs. Born and raised in Sydney, Henry attended Knox Grammar School before settling at St Andrew’s. Henry is currently studying a Bachelor of Commerce/Law at the University of Sydney.
What made you choose St Andrew’s?
I chose St Andrews due to what I had heard from my uncle and grandad, who had said it was some of the favourite years of their life. I made the right decision, and I am really enjoying talking about my experiences with them.
What drew you to the role of a Pastoral Care Leader?
When I first arrived at College, I saw signs displaying the names of the PCLs and wasn’t quite sure what it meant. However, over the course of my first couple of weeks at College, I observed the large influence that PCLs had. This included numerous acts of kindness at, and the organisation of, impactful events such as Fortnightly Fortnight. Through greater understanding of the role, I began to realise that my personal strengths and personality would make me suitable for the position of PCL, formulating a passion to be trusted with the role myself.
What have you learnt by being a PCL?
The biggest thing I have learnt is that a big contingent of people actually all face very similar issues. I feel like it is very easy to think that you’re the only one in many situations, but it is very surprising to see how shared those experiences are.
What other extra-curricular activities have you taken part in at College?
One of the main extra-curricular activities I’ve taken part in is cricket, which is a sport which I have loved my whole life. It has been great to represent Andrew’s, and hopefully we can win in second semester after losing last year. I am also involved in the formal committee for later in the year.
How has St Andrew’s helped you toward achieving your goals?
Academically, St Andrew’s has been a great help in helping me achieve my goals through their academic skills and tutoring sessions. It also will hopefully continue to help me with career goals through alumni events as well. I think more generally it has been a great environment for me to learn work-life balance.
What’s the best thing about College?
It would be a very common answer, but without a doubt the people and the overall culture which they create. I have been very lucky to have found a group of friends which I know will be friends for life. I have had such a great time with them at Andrew’s, but also, I know I could rely on them in times which aren’t so great.
Do you have advice for anyone considering applying to St Andrew’s?
My biggest piece of advice would be to just embrace all the opportunities that Andrew’s offers. Most people only get a maximum of three years here, and they will be years which are looked back on fondly. So whilst still working hard, I think it is very important to try enjoy all aspects of College life.