Student Wellbeing
School Psychologist
Our school psychologist focuses on the wellbeing and learning of students, addressing learning issues, social-emotional or behavioural concerns, and barriers to student participation. They work with teachers, families, and other student support staff to provide direct support, interventions, and referrals. School psychologists also collaborate with community providers and the school executive team.
Youth Support Worker
We have resourced 2 Youth Support Workers who provide varying supports to a range of students at CDS.
Targeted small group programs – our youth support workers run programs for identified students over a 5-week cycle. Teachers are able to refer a student to the YSW team to participate in one of these programs. The concepts covered in these sessions are tailored to meet the needs of these students.
Individualised programs - our youth support workers run individualised programs for identified students. Teachers are able to refer a student to the YSW team to participate in one of these programs. The concepts covered in these sessions are tailored to meet the needs of these students.
Daily/Weekly check ins – our youth support workers provide daily/weekly check ins to support identified students to connect and engage while at school.
External services and websites that offer counselling and information to both parents and children :
- Parentline provide free telephone counselling to parents/carers in the ACT. They can be contacted on 62873833 and more information can be found on their website. http://parentlineact.org.au/
- Kids helpline is a free service where children can connect with counsellors over the phone, via email or through an online chat system. They can be contacted on 1800551800. https://kidshelpline.com.au/kids
- Beyond blue provide some helpful information and guidance on mental health conditions experienced by both children and adults. https://www.beyondblue.org.au/
- The emerging minds website has a range of resources available to support families during COVID-19 lockdown. These resources are aimed at parents and carers to help them support their child’s mental health. The emerging minds website address is www.emergingminds.com.au
- Headspace website and app provide strategies children can use when feeling anxious, for example, journaling and mindfulness. https://headspace.org.au/
- Australian Psychological Society provide information sheets on how to manage various problems including lockdown fatigue and remote learning strategies for children with learning difficulties. https://www.psychology.org.au/for-the-public/Psychology-topics/COVID-19-Australians