Student Services
Our Student Services team consists of our School Psychologist, School Chaplain and Learning Support Coordinator so that our students, families and staff are well catered for as we address issues at point of need.
The team works closely with staff and collaborates with a wide range of outside agencies catering for students with pastoral care, academic, attentional, social, emotional and behavioural needs, as well as supporting teachers to cater for students who have a diagnosed disability or who have been identified as gifted and talented.
The Student Services Team
School Psychologist - Catherine Cleary
School Chaplain - Dom Casci
School Psychology Service
The School Psychology Service provides support in three main areas:
Behaviour
Working with students, parents and their schools to identify and change target behaviours at the individual, group and systemic level.
Learning
Conducting assessments of students experiencing learning difficulties and/or disabilities at schools. Supporting schools in making appropriate curriculum adjustments for students in order to enhance their learning outcomes.
Mental Health and Wellbeing
Providing direct support for students experiencing mental health and wellbeing difficulties. Assisting schools and children to maximise the development of positive mental health and wellbeing.
Referral Process
Teachers use a referral system to access the school psychologist when they have concerns about a student’s progress in any of these areas. Before accessing support for a student, informed consent is obtained from a parent or caregiver.
Parents access the school psychologist by speaking with their child's teacher, who will in turn speak to the school’s leadership team. The concerns will be discussed, and any further actions negotiated.
Chaplaincy
YouthCARE Chaplaincy in State Schools provides an integral role in meeting the needs of children. The Chaplain works to build relationships with students, families and staff to be available to:
- offer pastoral care;
- act as a mentor;
- provide a link between the school and the local community; and
- be a positive role model within the school.
Mrs Domenica Casci, Dom as she likes to be called, is part of the YouthCARE program. Dom has extensive experience being a School Chaplain having worked both in primary and high schools since 2005. Dom will be in the school on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.
Referral Process
Staff can refer children to the Chaplain for a variety of issues. Parental permission is always required before proceeding with a referral. Parents may also request that their child see the Chaplain. Referral forms are available from the front office. If a parent has a concern about their child and would like to meet Dom, feel free to call the school and schedule an appointment.