The State Government’s signifiant investment of $50 million into mental health and learning support specialists has achieved a crucial milestone. Over half of the 100 mental health practitioner roles have already been filled, with 25 professionals already working in schools across South Australia.
After a successful pilot program in nine schools last year, the initiative expanded to include up to 65 South Australian public secondary schools.
The selection of schools was based on the level of need in each area. Schools in Adelaide’s southern region, such as Aldinga Payinthi College, Seaview High School, Wirreanda Secondary School, Christies Beach High School, Seaford Secondary College, Hamilton Secondary College, Willunga High School, Springbank Secondary College, and the Australian Science and Mathematics School, now benefit from embedded mental health practitioners.
In addition to mental health practitioners, the learning support specialist roles encompass various professionals. These include social and truancy workers, Aboriginal support and inclusion leads, specialist behavioral educators, the YERTA program for Aboriginal students delivered by Kornar Winmil Yunti (KWY), a team of Autism Inclusion coordinators focusing on the professional development of Autism Inclusion Teachers, and occupational therapists.
Recruitment efforts are currently underway for a further 12 members to join the Flexible Service Response Team, which will include psychologists, speech pathologists, and a cultural community liaison coordinator who will be deployed to schools.
To commemorate this milestone, Premier Peter Malinauskas and Minister for Education, Training and Skills Blair Boyer visited Springbank Secondary College to meet the newly recruited professionals. The mental health workforce consists of psychologists, social workers, and occupational therapists who will provide one-on-one support to students, teachers, student support officers, and principals. Their aim is to develop programs that enhance the mental health and resilience of the entire school community.
Premier Peter Malinauskas says he is proud to be investing in the mental health and wellbeing of students across South Australia.
“Whether it be banning mobile phones, or employing psychologists, we’re committed to improving the wellbeing of our school students – which we know will improve their ability to learn.”
“I would encourage anyone with the relevant experience to consider applying for these important roles and make a difference to young people’s lives and for the future of our state.”
Minister for Education Blair Boyer said “These roles are so important to improve student results because we can’t expect students to achieve academically if they are struggling with their mental health.”
“The Mental Health Practitioners are providing key early intervention mental health services for students.”
“The appointment of 100 mental health and learning support specialists in South Australian public schools is an important step forward to support students, not only now, but well into the future – and I’m pleased we can offer this support throughout South Australia, including in the regions through this flexible model.”
