Social Worker
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Mel Maria is one of over 40 Catholic Schools in the Perth region utilising the services of a qualified and experienced social worker. Christine Pittman provides a school-based service that includes confidential counselling, helping with the pastoral care of students, contributing to the school’s policies, assisting teachers with social-emotional programs in classes and supporting parents with enhancing their children’s growth and development.
One focus of social work in Catholic schools is the support of children experiencing a variety of problems, including study pressure, falling out with peers, transition to high school, dealing with parents’ separation, sibling rivalry or grieving the loss of a loved one. Christine supports the students and their families during these difficult times and helps to enhance their coping strategies and connect with relevant services.
Christine has introduced the “Rainbows” loss and grief program to the school, and manages the presentation of social/emotional learning programs on helping children deal with friendship issues. She coordinates the Keeping Safe Child Protection resources for staff, and contributes regular articles to the school newsletter on child development issues and behaviour management strategies for parents. Christine provides a valuable service to the families of Mel Maria.