CEO's Update

What Trust and Care Look Like at MITS

At MITS, trust and Care are built in practical ways: a student trying something unfamiliar, a family sharing what their young person needs, or a staff member taking the time to listen, respond and make sure the right support is in place.

These everyday moments create the strong relationships behind every opportunity at MITS. In our team chats, staff have celebrated students “feeling confident and supported” and reminded one another to keep building on each young person’s strengths. Those messages capture the care, encouragement and belief that help students step forward.

This term, that confidence has been visible across the MITS. Students have explored university and career pathways, taken part in cultural learning experiences and represented MITS proudly through sport—including grand final appearances. Behind these milestones are the smaller wins shared by staff: a student giving school a go on a difficult day, a full week of attendance, or a team celebrating that “the fellas are flying.”

Our MITS value of Care is also reflected in the strong health partnerships surrounding our students. Through Richmond Access Health and Community and support from our specialist pediatrician, students can access timely, coordinated care when they need it. The recent visit from the Chompers dental van brought free dental check-ups, oral health education and follow-up advice directly to the MITS school site. This sits alongside the everyday care seen from our student-facing team messages—staff checking in when a young person is unwell or unsettled, sharing updates and making sure no student is left without support.

Our senior students have shown another dimension of trust as they prepare for life beyond school. By sharing their experiences and advice, they are helping younger students imagine what may be possible for them too.

For families, this work depends on genuine partnership. Your knowledge, encouragement and honest conversations help us understand each student and connect them with the learning, wellbeing and health support they need to feel safe, strong and included.

Thank you for the trust you place in MITS and for the contribution you make to our community. We hope the break brings time to reconnect with family and Country, rest well and enjoy being together.

Warm regards,

Lia Bartholomew

Acting Chief Executive Officer, MITS