The Defence School Mentor Program’s objective is to support the wellbeing of children of ADF members and their families by enabling engagement with the school community and connection with in-school wellbeing supports.
The DSM Program connects students from ADF families with their school community and enhances the school's ability to address the impacts of the military lifestyle.
Defence provides funding to eligible schools through the DSMP by enabling employment of a Defence School Mentor, as an employee of the school, to achieve the following outcomes:
- Build school capacity to support ADF families: Engage regularly with school staff to provide education and resources regarding the ADF lifestyle, strengthening their understanding of the unique needs of ADF families and equipping school staff to offer effective support.
- Connect students of ADF families with in-school wellbeing supports: Work closely with ADF families and school staff to connect students of ADF members to relevant information and in-school wellbeing supports when required.
- Facilitate connection opportunities with the school community: Students of ADF families have opportunities to connect with their school community, fostering a sense of belonging.
Our DSM, Mrs Stacey Hartwich, provides assistance to Defence students and their families and raises awareness of the unique needs of these families due to the military lifestyle within the school community.
Stacey is at school Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Email stacey.hartwich@spcc.nsw.edu.au
Stacey Hartwich
Defence School Mentor
Stacey Hartwich
Defence School Mentor