Mental Health and Wellbeing Leader - Emily Kurts

My name is Emily, and I am the Mental Health and Wellbeing Leader (MHWL), after previously working here as a classroom teacher.

With 18 years of teaching experience, I am passionate about helping every student feel a strong sense of belonging and ensuring they feel safe, happy, and supported at school. I believe that positive, secure relationships between students and teachers form the foundation for meaningful learning and growth.

Under Victoria’s Mental Health in Primary Schools (MHiPS) initiative, my role focuses on mental health promotion, early intervention, and building teacher capability. I’m a teacher (not a psychologist) and I work alongside staff to strengthen everyday wellbeing practices across the school.

As an MHWL I work across the school to lead a whole-school approach to mental health and wellbeing for students, staff and families based on the needs of the school community. I lead a whole-school approach to mental health and wellbeing in different ways.

To build the capacity of school staff, in particular classroom teachers, to identify and support students with mental health concerns in the classroom.
Support the school to create clear referral pathways internally (within school) and externally (to community services) for students identified as requiring further mental health assessment and support.
Coordinate targeted mental health support for students by working with regional staff, school wellbeing and leadership teams, teachers, parents/carers and external organisations.
I advocate for student voice and agency in their wellbeing and mental health needs.

Most often, you’ll hear from me because I’m supporting teachers to maintain calm, consistent routines that help students feel ready to learn. I’m already a familiar face in the Prep to Year 3 classrooms; teaching, reading with students, and supporting students wherever I’m needed. I’m continuing to build that same connection in the upper years. My role is to be another safe, trusted adult that students can come to whenever they need someone to talk to.

When I am not supporting students I work alongside teachers to implement our school‑agreed, evidence‑based high‑impact literacy programs across the Year 1 and Year 2 classrooms.

Inclusive Practices Learning Specialist - Chelsea Hahn

It’s a pleasure to introduce myself to the Murrumbeena community.

My name is Chelsea Hahn (formerly Chelsea Quirk after getting married earlier this year), and I am the Inclusive Practices Learning Specialist at Murrumbeena Primary School. I hold a Master’s degree in Inclusive Education and have over a decade of experience working within the classroom. I am passionate about supporting all students, irrespective of their differences, to have the conditions for success within our school community.

In this role, I work closely with students, teachers, families, and support services to help ensure every student is supported to thrive both academically and socially. A large part of my work involves building the capacity of staff to respond effectively to diverse learning needs, as well as monitoring the supports and personalised learning plans in place for students. I also coordinate the Disability Inclusion Funding processes and help provide the resources and adjustments students need to feel successful, included, and connected.

Another important part of my role involves coordinating the transition processes for students entering our school. I enjoy getting to know our youngest community members by visiting local kindergartens, engaging with kindergarten teachers, and working closely with families to ensure we understand our learners before they formally begin school. This proactive approach helps us put the right supports and adjustments in place from day one, supporting a positive and successful start to school life.

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