DSM - Defence Student Mentor
Our Defence Force students will be selling badges, pins and pens after school until Wednesday 24th April on the basketball court. Bring along a gold coin or two and purchase an item to support our local RSL. Our school will be participating in the Hastings RSL ANZAC Day walk and ceremony - Students are asked to wear their school uniform and be prepared for the weather (hats or coats). Students and families will meet Lisa and other staff at 10.30am on King Street to walk from the Hastings RSL down to the Cenotaph at the Foreshore for the 11am ceremony. Two senior students will present the wreath on behalf of the St Mary's Community. We will also be hosting a Wednesday Assembly with an ANZAC theme on Wednesday 24th April at 8.45am.
Defence Student Program
St Mary's proudly supports students whose families are currently in service or have served in our Australian forces. They meet most weeks with our DSM mentor, Mrs Galvin, and are supported in all areas of their schooling.
The Defence School Mentor Program is delivered in partnership with the Australian Government to support the well-being of children of ADF members.
The program connects children with the St Mary's school community and enhances our ability to address the impacts of the military lifestyle.
The program has 4 objectives:
- Provide families with information about the St Mary's school environment and the support available relevant to their child's developmental needs.
- Support children to access school-based social and emotional support, aligned to school policies.
- Facilitate opportunities for children to build relationships and connections through events and other initiatives (for example, the regular Defence Force Club on Monday afternoons with Mrs Galvin).
- Raise awareness amongst the school community about the impacts of the Defence lifestyle on children and families.
If parents have any questions regarding this program, please email Lisa on lgalvin@smhastings.catholic.edu.au