Child of Defence families

Darwin is home to one of Australia’s largest military bases.  With a large number of military personnel in the city, a significant number of Australian Defence Force (ADF) families are regularly posted in and out of Darwin.

At Holy Spirit Catholic Primary School, we are fortunate enough to employ one Defence School Mentor (DSM) at the school during term time.  The DSM provides invaluable support, information and referrals to all ADF students and families within our community.

Some of this support may include:

• Coordinating welcoming and farewell strategies for students of ADF families,
• Identifying individual issues and needs of these students whilst they are part of the school community,
• Developing and implementing programs and resources that address ADF student needs,
• Monitoring students day to day social and emotional wellbeing, providing appropriate referrals as required,
• Facilitating student participation in cultural, sporting, academic and personal development programs,
• Being a contact for parents of ADF students at the school with regards to community, school and ADF resources,
• Enhancing the relationship between the school and the Defence community.

Please let our staff know if you are a member of the ADF to ensure you are offered support from our DSM for your children.