Welfare Position

The Shepparton English Language Centre (SELC), based at the Hayes Street Campus of St Georges Road Primary, will be responsible for providing EAL (English as an Additional Language) Intensive English Tuition to New Arrivals students in primary and secondary government schools in the Shepparton Schools District. In addition to Intensive English Tuition, students are taught some specialist areas such as Mathematics, Physical Education, Art, Music, Science and/or Aussie Skills. The overall target number for SELC is 65 students each year. New Arrival Primary and Secondary students from the Shepparton network of schools will attend the Hayes St Campus full time for a period of 6 - 12 months. The Shepparton English Language Centre also provides a Visiting Teacher Service, offering individual, targeted support to local EAL students who have been in Australia between one and five years.

The Welfare Officer is responsible for providing comprehensive welfare support to students, ensuring their overall well-being and addressing any challenges they may face. The role requires a compassionate and empathetic approach, combined with strong communication and problem-solving skills. This position will play a crucial role in fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

Responsibilities:

• Provide individual support to students, addressing issues such as homesickness, academic stress, cultural adjustment and personal challenges.
• Maintain regular contact with students, monitoring their progress and offering guidance as needed.
• Facilitate group support sessions and workshops to promote mental health and well-being.
• Support students experiencing behavioural or discipline challenges by addressing underlying social, emotional or family factors using restorative practice principles.
• Build capability of the whole school regarding mental health and well-being.
• Support teachers and school staff to expand their capacity to embed evidence-based mental health strategies.
• Work with students regarding mental health and well-being, including targeted teaching lessons on a regular basis.
• Establish clear pathways for referral for students requiring assessment and intervention.
• Ensure the school is fully compliant with disability inclusion policies and regulations.
• Co-ordinate with relevant departments to provide appropriate accommodations and support services for students with disabilities.
• Respond to and manage emergency situations, such as medical emergencies, personal crises or safety concerns in collaboration with leadership.
• Build relationships with local organisations and community resources to support students' needs.
• Other duties as assigned by the SELC Co-ordinator or Principal.

Who May Apply:

• An EAL teaching qualification recognised by the Victorian Institute of Teaching (preferred).
• At least 5 years of teaching experience in EAL (preferred).
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge of disability inclusion policies and practices.
• Empathy, compassion and a commitment to student and staff well-being.

The department is committed to diversity and inclusion and developing a workforce that is representative of the community we service. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are strongly encouraged to apply for roles within the Department.

Victorian government schools are child safe environments. Our schools actively promote the safety and wellbeing of all students, and all school staff are committed to protecting students from abuse or harm in the school environment.

Employment is Teacher level, Full Time – 38 hours per week. A contract position from 27th January 2027 to 27th January 2028 will be offered. Registration with the Victorian Institute of Teaching is mandatory. A current Driver Licence is required. The successful applicant will be subject to a police clearance at both the Federal and State levels.