Student Wellbeing

Lauren Deaves works at the school from Monday to Thursday and fortnightly Fridays.

Lauren is the Mental Health Practitioner at Murrayville Community College, under the direction of the Principal.  Her role is to help care for and improve the social and emotional wellbeing of students within the school environment and families, as needed.  Lauren is part of the wellbeing team at the school.

Lauren can be contacted via email any time

Lauren.Deaves@education.vic.gov.au

or through school 03 5095 2001

Lauren offers

  • A listening ear and caring presence
  • Support plans as required for individual students
  • Strategies to support with depression, anxiety and grief
  • Referrals to external supports if needed for higher level support

This may include practical support, general assistance, an investment of time (eg reading or doing an activity with a child) or ongoing time with a child working toward specific goals.

  • Support for families, including practical help
  • Lunch and recess time activities
  • Classroom support

Students’ access to Lauren is voluntary.  All students who take part in individual sessions with her a consent form that is required to be completed by parents / caregivers before commencing.

A Mental Health Practitioner is inclusive and respects the views and traditions of all in the school community.  They understand the boundaries of their role and training and know when and how to refer on.  They do not try to persuade any person to adopt specific beliefs and practices.  The officer holds a “Working with Children” card, maintains current police checks and is a mandated notifier.