About the program
Larrakeyah Primary has included the Defence School Mentor Program which provides the practical support and services of our Defence School Mentor (DSM).
The DSM’s key role is to help provide a smooth transition into and out of the Larrakeyah Primary School community for ADF children and their families.
What our aide can help with
Our DSM assists with student transitions in and out of schools, works within class rooms on a regular basis assisting Defence children. She also conducts lunch time activities for students, hosts afternoon teas for parents and supports students during times of parental absence due to deployment, either for professional development or military reasons.
The DSM works closely with teachers to monitor Defence children’s personal issues such as friendship & peer groups and any classroom difficulties. She also provides opportunities for ADF families to meet other ADF families within the school community. The DSM relays information, services and events of interest to Defence families in the newsletter each week and by email.
We understand the challenges faced by defence families
Through working with the DSM all Larrakeyah staff and teachers are aware of the difficulties that mobile military family life can sometimes cause with parental absence, settling in a new school environment and of course saying goodbye to friends for the next adventure. The DSM’s primary goal is to reduce the educational and emotional impact of postings and parental absence for Defence students through support and activities to assist building student’s confidence, friendships and resilience.
Getting in touch
Please don’t hesitate to contact Larrakeyah School’s Defence School Mentor, Jodie Murdoch, for any information that will assist your relocation to our community and ensure you advise the school you are a Defence family when filling out your enrolment forms by ticking the appropriate boxes so the support of our DSM can be readily provided.
