As children face mounting pressures on multiple fonts, finding a safe space at school is increasingly important.
Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) is highlighting the critical work its guidance counsellors perform to achieve just that.
BCE Senior Manager Student Diversity and Wellbeing Dionne Lloyd said guidance counsellors were employed in all BCE schools and worked collaboratively with school communities to promote the wellbeing of all students.
Ms Lloyd said the provision of a comprehensive guidance and counselling service that enabled student learning and quality teaching.
She said 200 mental health professionals worked tirelessly in the schools to foster safe and supportive learning environments.
“The safety and wellbeing of our students is our priority.
“We have high expectations of our students, but we provide the necessary, individualised support required to access the curriculum and achieve to their potential.”
St Michael’s Secondary College Merrimac Guidance Counsellor Josh Laidler said it was a privilege to walk with students, to support them to find a positive pathway.
“While the role has become more specialist over time, what remains at its core is our focus on creating a safe environment for students to be heard and where they can access the curriculum,” Mr Laidler said.
“Our students have an ever-increasing number of pressures, and I support them to foster positive, healthy and safe relationships, so they leave school having had a positive experience.”
Sacred Heart Primary Booval Guidance Counsellor Rhyanna Alvarez said it was her role to be a champion for her students and their constant safe person.
“I work with teachers and families on educational adjustments, short term interventions, small group social skills groups or whole school program implementation,” Ms Alvarez said.
“In primary school we do a lot of proactive work with students around social interactions and emotional regulation, often supporting families through the process of diagnosis.”
Good Shepherd Catholic Primary School Springfield Lakes Guidance Counsellor Caroline Vakaci said the personal connections forged with students and teachers were truly rewarding.
“To see our students progress, develop a positive sense of self and a positive connection with the school can really set them up for success throughout their school years,” Ms Vakaci said.
