Meet our Dean of Students
At Penrhos College, our Dean of Students, Monica Cormack, plays a crucial role in fostering a supportive environment for students and their families. Overseeing the College’s Wellbeing Framework and pastoral care programs, Monica works closely with school leaders and teachers to ensure that every student receives the support they need.
Reflecting on her own journey with Penrhos, Monica shares, “I first came to Penrhos as a nervous 14-year-old with a distinct South African accent. My family had just moved from Johannesburg to Perth, and my sister and I joined Penrhos while my older brother attended Wesley College. This was the beginning of a decades-long relationship with the College.”
After graduating in 1992, Monica returned to Penrhos as a member of the English Department. “As a new teacher, I had the privilege of learning from some of the department’s notable figures, including Mrs Knott, Ms Payne, and Mr Nutchey. I was immediately drawn to the College’s Pastoral Care Program, which inspired me to become actively involved in this area.”
Her passion for student wellbeing led Monica to take on the role of Head of Students alongside her teaching duties. Although she stepped away from teaching in 2005 to focus on raising her family, Monica returned to Penrhos in 2015 with a renewed commitment to supporting the emotional and mental wellbeing of young people.
“For the past seven years, I’ve had the honour of working as Head of Students, closely supporting students and their families. As I step into the role of Dean of Students, I am excited to continue this work, collaborating with the Pastoral Care team within our CONNECT framework to enhance connection and wellbeing throughout our Penrhos community.”
Monica is eager to continue working with students and their families across the Secondary School, contributing to Penrhos College’s mission of fostering a nurturing and supportive environment for all.
At Penrhos College, our commitment to wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do. Under Monica’s leadership as Dean of Students, we remain dedicated to creating a nurturing and supportive environment where every student can thrive, knowing that their emotional and mental wellbeing is always a priority.
Together, we strive to ensure that every member of our community feels connected, supported and empowered to succeed.
