Support Services

St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Secondary School is proud to offer a variety of support services within our school community.

Chaplaincy

The Catholic Identity of St. Thomas Aquinas exists in all aspects of the school. It is present both inside and outside the classroom and is at the core of all that we do and say. You will see outward signs of our faith throughout the building, within the curriculum, in many of the school activities, and in the words and actions of staff and students. The Chaplaincy Department with its services and opportunities for students, helps to create a living faith for our school community.

Mental Health

According to the World Health Organization, "Mental health is defined as a state of well-being in which every individual realizes his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community."

Mental health and wellness are priorities here at St. Thomas Aquinas. We have several activities throughout the year to promote wellness and a sense of community. We also have access to a wealth of resources through the Board's Mental Health Portal.

Please, feel free to contact your Guidance Counsellor if you have any questions or would like to know more about the supports available through the school.

Belonging

Everyone needs to have a sense of belonging and connection with others. This helps provide a positive school climate where students, parents, staff and community members feel they belong and are valued. Working with our school community, we return to our Catholic faith roots to examine how we might promote and encourage safe, healthy, inclusive, equitable, Christ-centered learning environments in our schools.

Our Catholic teachings promote a culture of Being, Belonging and Becoming in the classroom, school and community. A variety of learning environments are provided in which students can develop feelings of acceptance, belonging, and self-worth. We recognize that the divine image is present in each and every person. Parents, students, staff and community members are invited to demonstrate Healthy living, Belonging and Stewardship in their daily words and actions.

Formed and informed by the life of Christ, our faith tradition, and the Catholic Graduate Expectations, we hope to provide all the opportunity to grow in relationships with self, others, God and the environment. (cf. Mt. 5-7).

What are the characteristics of a positive school climate?

When a positive school climate exists,

students, parents, and staff members feel safe, comfortable, and accepted;
healthy and respectful relationships are promoted among all members of the school community;
students are encouraged to be leaders and positive role models – for example, by speaking up about issues such as bullying;
parents and community members are actively engaged;
positive behaviour is reinforced and students are given opportunities to develop relationships that are free of racism, discrimination, and harassing behaviour;
there is a culture of high expectations in which the improvement of learning outcomes for all students is emphasized;
all cultures are respected and valued.
where forgiveness and reconciliation is promoted;
where we celebrate our faith and the God-given gifts of others; and,
where we reach out and serve others especially those in need.