doing school differently.
a behind the scenes look into SA’s Hospital School.
“Every young person and family that are here have their well-being tested and it comes on a daily basis, and it can be on a minute-by-minute basis. So, we have to underpin everything we do with that wellbeing lens”.
In August 2023, we had the opportunity to sit with Matthew
McCurry, Principal of South Australia’s Hospital School, to learn the crucial
role the school, and its Pastoral Care Worker has, in supporting the lives of
young people and their families during some of the most challenging of
circumstances.
Matthew has been the principal at Hospital School SA, (a school that operates across 3 campuses within 3 of SA’s hospitals - SA Women’s & Children’s Hospital, Lyle McEwin Hospital, and Flinders Medical Centre) for the last 5 years.
Prior to this he was part of the leadership at Youth Education Centre, where he experienced the numerous benefits of working with SMG Pastoral Care Workers and what they can bring to a school with multiple complex needs.
“I'm personally not a faith-based person but when I arrived at the hospital school, and saw that we didn't have a pastoral care worker, I felt like there was a space for someone to come in here and add value to that wraparound support that so important, that's when we started working with SMG to find community churches that were willing to support the position here, and that's when we brought in Coralie.”
Principal Matthew and PCW Coralie in Mathew's office.
Thousands of children from all over South Australia, and parts of the Northern Territory, are supported by the caring team of educators and support staff each year, as they undergo treatment for medical conditions, that impacts both physical and/or mental health. For many, this allows a continuity of education whilst they are away from their normal classroom.
“It's really important for us to connect with our young people and our families because every single one of them is outside of what is their normal”.. “Every single one of them is being impacted” added Mathew as he went on to tell us how so many children, families and school communities are affected in the event of mental or physical illness.
“Since 2019, Hospital School SA has seen a 62% increase in acute child and adolescent mental health presentations and admissions across SA. It's never been more clear that mental health is everybody's business. We all have a responsibility. We all have a role” continued Matthew.
“It's a roller coaster of emotions, a false reality that is outside the norm”, he adds, referring to daily life for young people and families in hospital and how Coralie engages with their needs. “To be able to connect with families, to able to identify the correct supports, how much to say, what not to say, [and] when to, all of that is on a daily, minute by minute basis.”
PCW Coralie walking the wards at Flinders Medical Centre, Paediatric Ward.
“She [Coralie] does it across three different campuses with three different local health networks, and three very different cohorts of family and challenges"
Coralie has been supporting Hospital School SA for 2 years now. Prior to this, Coralie was a PCW within SA Government Schools in the western suburbs of Adelaide.
These days she works alongside 35 staff members and considers the Hospital School to be somewhat like that of an Area School, having the full range of Primary and Secondary schooling, including a Preschool at the Lyle McEwin.
“I work 2 days a week at Women's and Children's campus, 1 day at the Lyle McEwin, and 1 day at Flinders Medical Centre, so yeah, I think what makes my role different at Hospital School is obviously (it’s) a different setting” says Coralie, “we have a lot of kids coming in and coming out, so it's a lot harder to build relationships.”
“We have kids from both private and public sectors coming in” added Coralie, “we have kids from the metro area, rural area, and also Northern Territory coming down here along with their siblings. So, we don't just support the kids who were in for treatment, we also support their siblings and their families”.
“When Coralie walks into the room it makes Joseph light up and get excited because she gives him the attention that he needs to thrive and to improve his wellbeing” – Mother of teenager Joseph, who has complex medical needs and has spent 9 months over two years at Hospital School SA
As part of the PCW role at Hospital School, Coralie engages with each student’s “Home School” - the school from which they usually attend. Often this connection point at each school can be another PCW who is available to extend support to the wider school community, many of whom feel the loss of a friend or fellow classmate, and don’t know when they are coming home or even if they are ok.
Coralie often spends time coordinating connection for students and families returning to their communities as a way of increasing the level of support that can sometimes be missed. This smooths the way when the student and their family return home with as much care as possible. Such support is considered incredibly important by the team at Hospital School, especially during times of a grief, should a student pass away.
“If a child passes away in the community, their enrolled school will get crisis support as it is a time of great impact and not something that generally happens often” says Coralie, “and a PCW will get extra resourcing for that, whereas that's part of our everyday here”.
“You're working together for that common goal, we need unity to best support people in difficult circumstances” continues Coralie, “here [at] Hospital School we work very well as a team, and it's the focus that is around teamwork. Same as a lot of schools, but it's a different level I think here at Hospital School, probably more than any other school I've worked at”.
“I like to lift people up and that's my first thing that I will try to do, but some situations you've got to do the total opposite. You just got to actually be quiet and listen and walk alongside people and be there to nearly be like a safe place to land when stuff's going on”.
Hospital School SA Primary Classroom, Women's and Children's Hospital.
Coralie shares that developing the skill to ‘read’ a room quite quickly is incredibly important. “You're not just reading the child's response, you are reading the parents responses, you're watching to see how staff are also interacting within that space, so to work out how to best support everybody within that one scenario is challenging”.
“I love that I've got so many different aspects of my job, it's so different from day to day I have no idea what's going to happen in the day. I walk in the room, I won't even know what children are going to be in the classroom from one day to the next because it can change very, very, quickly. You're not trying to solve a problem you're just walking alongside and being there when people need you.”
Coralie has found that understanding what it means to have faith helps during times when people feel their world has turned upside-down even if they are of a different or no faith. She says “in times of crisis, the lines kind of blur a little bit and they [families] value someone who has a Faith. It doesn't necessarily have to match their own, but that understanding that faith can make a difference in their decision making, it can make a difference in how they view things. So that's an extra layering which I think is quite valuable”.
Empty bed, Flinders Medical Centre Paediatric Ward
“An aspect of working at Hospital School and working in this environment” Says Matthew “is that young people are in a particular position with their health, and that can lead to young people passing away and that is something that happens in this environment, there's not regularity behind it but in some ways there is.”
Matthew and his team have worked hard at refining the process of communication in the event of a young person passing away. “I find out that information before many people do” says Matthew, “and one of my first contacts is with Coralie and we look at what is our next steps over those days, weeks, or months, and we check in on a regular basis and we update each other.”
Handling delicately communication of a passing while maintaining confidential, respectful, and sensitive support during those times of grief and loss is incredibly important. “it's vital for her [Coralie] to be within that process, and in that core team that then have to support each other, our staff, our families, their colleagues” adds Mathew.
“Grief and loss, at these times, these you know just ripples out. And so, we are central to that, and we're grateful that we are the people that do that. But it's important that we really know our stuff when it comes to being supportive, and Coralie has definitely helped shape that”.
Women's and Children's Hospital building North Adelaide, SA.
As incredible and vital Coralie’s role is as a PCW at Hospital School SA, her time is restricted to 12 hours per week due to funding limitations under the National Student Wellbeing Program (NSWP). Thankfully, the school was recently blessed with a short boost of additional funding, temporarily increasing Coralie’s time at the school until December 2023, a time when all available funding comes to an end. And with this, the very real possibility of Coralie’s role at Hospital School SA.
Like all South Australian Schools, Hospital School SA is required to re-apply for the NSWP grant to secure another 4 years.
Should the school be successful in their application, Coralie’s time spent with children and families in the hospital may continue. The funding available for each school hasn’t changed since the start of the program in 2007. It hasn’t taken into account the rising cost of living.
2024 funding will cover no more than 10 hours per week split between the three campuses, an allocation of time working across three sites that will not provide the support vulnerable young people and their families need.
Currently there are 356 State Government Schools in South Australian that have access to NSWP funding, with more than 500 State schools that have been encouraged to apply, there is no guarantee that Hospital School SA will retain their funding in 2024.
In 2024 to 2027 successful schools will receive funding of $20,280 per annum for 300 hours of service per year.
For those schools who may lose funding, SMG is asking for a continuation of support from a variety of places, with the belief that it takes a community to support the wellbeing of school aged children. Many churches across SA are partnering with private businesses and individual donors to support the needs of schools who currently do not have access to NSWP funding.
Such partnerships are crucial to the continuation of Pastoral Care services into the new year.
If you would like to learn more and partner with SMG to fund the work SMG Pastoral Car Workers do within schools like Hospital School SA, donate today and give generously.
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You're on the way to becoming a Pastoral Care Worker!
Seminar Presenter
- Assist in the preparation, set up and packing away of equipment and props
- Learn scripts and games to be delivered
- Some travel may be required to regional areas
- Public Speaking Working within a school environment (desirable)
- Working with children and young people Generating ideas which demonstrate creativity, flair and an adventurous approach to ministry
- Working with audio visual equipment (desirable)
- Working in or around the performing arts industry, or have had some exposure to industry practice(desirable)
- Certificate IV in Youth Work or Certificate IV in Pastoral Care & Chaplaincy that contains CHCCCS016 (‘Respond to client needs’) and CHCMHS001 (‘Work with people with mental health issues’).
- An equivalent or higher qualification which must include competencies in ‘mental health’ and ‘making appropriate referrals’.
Additionally, applicants who are yet to complete the minimum qualification may be considered. Their appointment would be subject to approval from the Department for Education. This would require the applicant to agree to complete the qualification within a pre-specified time period (e.g. 6 months or an appropriate time period).
Pastoral Care Worker
Together with the support and resources of the local combined Christian community, a PCW has a unique opportunity to help young people and school communities discover Purpose, Value, and Hope.
Whole of School Services
- working with school leaders and wellbeing staff to create a school environment that promotes the wellbeing of all students.
- supporting school camps, excursions and events.
- supporting community activities that connect the school to external partners and organisations.
- supporting school programs such as breakfast clubs, sporting group, social and other extra-curricular activities
Group Services
- supporting the delivery of structured social emotional learning programs.
- running recess and lunchtime activities.
- providing classroom support.
- supporting learning groups – reading groups, homework groups
One-to-One Services
- working under the guidance of school leaders and trained wellbeing staff to support students experiencing difficult situations, including grief, crisis and personal or emotional challenges.
- working with school leaders and wellbeing staff to provide information and referrals to additional supports, including community services.
- providing individual learning support as agreed with school leaders and wellbeing staff.
- mentoring and coaching.
- Certificate IV in Youth Work or Certificate IV in Pastoral Care & Chaplaincy that contains CHCCCS016 (‘Respond to client needs’) and CHCMHS001 (‘Work with people with mental health issues’).
- An equivalent or higher qualification which must include competencies in ‘mental health’ and ‘making appropriate referrals’.
Additionally, applicants who are yet to complete the minimum qualification may be considered. Their appointment would be subject to approval from the Department for Education. This would require the applicant to agree to complete the qualification within a pre-specified time period (e.g. 6 months or an appropriate time period).
Step 1: Read the Job Specification (describes the role)
Step 2: Read the PCW Selection Criteria (the person we are looking for)
Step 3: Read the Code of Conduct (the expectation of an smg employee)
Step 4: Read the Basis of Belief (why smg exists)
Step 5: View the Dimensions of Chaplaincy (practical functions of a pcw)
Step 6: Download & Fill out the Application Form
Step 7: Apply using the applicant portal
You will also need the following documents for Step 7.
- Current CV
- Academic Transcripts
- Working with Children Check if you have one
- RHHAN -EC Training Certificate if you have one
Which training fits your needs?
Individuals
Group Training
Regional Manager
- 1. To assist with the appointment of Pastoral Care Workers.
- Involvement in regular orientation training for newly appointed PCWs.
- Consulting, coordinating and conducting appointment panels with schools for placement of PCWs.
- Providing on-school site inductions for PCWs.
2. To facilitate support, training, resourcing, and pastoral care for our Pastoral Care Workers. - Assisting PCW’s in developing their work & professional development plans.
- Consultation with school principals / leaders regarding PCWs performance and engagement
- Attending and/or facilitating PCW District Group meetings to support and encourage PCW’s.
- Resolve questions & requests for assistance from PCWs in a timely manner.
- To provide appropriate pastoral care & wellbeing support to PCWs.
3. To consult and liaise closely with relevant schools, support groups (various associations) and churches. - Collaborating with these stakeholders as required though various channels of communication.
- Maximise SMG student wellbeing program awareness and engagement in schools.
- Providing occasional pastoral care to school principals and leaders.
- Encourage support groups and churches to be involved in broader local school ministry.
4. To ensure PCW reviews are undertaken when due and facilitate this process. - Exercising appropriate preparation for the review process.
- Conducting reviews & negotiating the outcomes with relevant leaders.
Qualifications/Experience: - Certificate IV in Youth Work or Certificate IV in Pastoral Care & Chaplaincy that contains CHCCCS016 (‘Respond to client needs’) and CHCMHS001 (‘Work with people with mental health issues’) or an equivalent or higher qualification.
- Experience in chaplaincy, pastoral care or social work would be highly regarded.
Person Specification: - Have strong interpersonal skills.
- Good conflict & resolution management.
- Strong negotiation skills.
- The ability to train and mentor others.
- Highly focused on customer experience outcomes.
- A personal commitment to Christian faith and values, as stated in the Nicene Creed.
- An active and regular involvement in a Christian community
Performance Goals: - Maintain strong regular communication with Pastoral Care Workers, School Leaders & Support Groups
- Efficiently & effectively resolve queries from PCWs, school leaders and support groups.
- Contribute to the development of and pastoral care of PCWs.
- Aid in creating a positive partnership between SMG, schools, and community.
- In addition to the duties outlined above, you are also required to perform such other duties as may be directed by your supervisor or management provided these are within your competency or training.
Date of issue: 08/02/2024
Closing date: 21/02/2024
Digital Services Administrator
Permanent Part Time
Applications Close: 5:00PM ACDT Friday 10th November 2023
SMG offers ongoing pastoral and practical support through chaplaincy, Christian education, and wellbeing services to school communities in partnership with the combined Christian community and other organisations.
SMG is the employer of more than 300 Pastoral Care Workers in SA government schools and is an approved Chaplaincy Service provider of the South Australian Department for Education (DfE) through the National Student Wellbeing Program (NSWP).
SMG Vision
Young people and school communities across South Australia discovering Purpose, Value and Hope.
Providing friendly and efficient first level support to all users of IT systems.
Supporting a faithful and Christ focused team to enable South Australian young people and school communities the opportunity to discover Purpose Value and Hope
- Providing level 1 - 2 technical advice to users on personal computer hardware and software.
- Utilising a variety of methods and techniques in solving basic technical problems.
- Keeping management aware of potential areas for product enhancement and educational requirements.
- Liaising with managers/supervisors regarding potential problems.
- Troubleshoot issues that arise.
- Research skills acquired/acquiring at university or equivalent.
- Experience in an IT Support environment.
- Detailed understanding of Helpdesk/Customer Support process.
- IT Help Desk ticket management.
- Good oral and written communication skills.
- Good organisational skills.
- Resolving client problems and queries in an effective and timely manner.
- Ensuring all users know the status of their individual problems.
Payroll & Finance Support Officer
Permanent Part Time
Applications Close: 5:00PM ACDT Friday 10th Novemeber 2023
SMG offers ongoing pastoral and practical support through chaplaincy, Christian education, and wellbeing services to school communities in partnership with the combined Christian community and other organisations.
SMG is the employer of more than 300 Pastoral Care Workers in SA government schools and is an approved Chaplaincy Service provider of the South Australian Department for Education (DfE) through the National Student Wellbeing Program (NSWP).
SMG Vision
Young people and school communities across South Australia discovering Purpose, Value and Hope.
The Payroll & Finance Support Officer is responsible for conducting the payroll on a fortnightly basis. Frequently monitoring & conducting employee reimbursements. Sending & receiving invoices from relevant stakeholders as required. Contributing to government reporting requirements as well as preparing monthly, quarterly, and year-end payroll statements.
The duties associated with this position include the following:
1. Efficiently and accurately carry out a range of payroll and finance tasks
- Process payroll for our PCW’s and Support Centre staff on a rotating fortnightly basis.
- Input and update data into electronic payroll and financial systems and the SMG database.
- Manage the school chaplain hour budgets.
- Prepare and send invoices to debtors.
- Receive and record debtor payments.
- Collate and file documentation associated with payments and receipts.
- Prepare reconciliations of bank and other accounts.
- Assist with annual audit requirements.
- Liaise with Regional Managers (Pastoral Leads) to resolve PCW timesheet queries and anomalies.
- Invoice support groups on a quarterly basis for their pledged PCW hours.
- Managing/Monitoring reimbursements for staff.
- Assist the Finance manager as required with their respective duties.
- Ad hoc payroll queries as required
- Identify areas of improvement regarding your day-to-day duties.
- Attend approved training opportunities, and subsequently apply and share learnings as appropriate.
- Relevant experience in finance/payroll.
- Strong knowledge of Microsoft Excel.
- Demonstrated experience in financial record keeping and month end processes.
- Payroll experience within a not-for-profit or community sector organisation will be highly regarded.
- Knowledge of basic payroll procedures, organisational structure, Awards and organisational policies.
- PC application skills e.g., Spreadsheets.
- Good time & project management skills.
- Ability to work with minimal supervision and capacity to identify and implement improved working systems, processes, and procedures.
- Strong problem-solving ability.
- Efficient & effective completion of fortnightly payroll.
- Accurate invoicing and reconciliation in a timely manner.
- Successful reimbursement of staff expenditure.
Recruitment Officer
Flexible FTE: 0.6-1.0
Applications Close: 29 June. 2024
SMG offers ongoing pastoral and practical support through chaplaincy, Christian education, and wellbeing services to school communities in partnership with the combined Christian community and other organisations.
SMG is the employer of more than 270 Pastoral Care Workers in SA government schools and is an approved Chaplaincy Service provider of the South Australian Department for Education (DfE) through the National Student Wellbeing Program (NSWP).
SMG Vision
Young people and school communities across South Australia discovering Purpose, Value and Hope.
The duties associated with this position include the following:
1. Best Practice Recruitment
- Manage the recruitment process for vacant positions.
- Manage ongoing expressions of interest, recruitment, and selection processes to recruit candidates.
- Ensure all applicants have a sound and positive recruiting experience.
2. Support and liaise closely with Regional Managers to facilitate the appointment of Pastoral Care Workers.
- Partner with Regional Managers to proactively identify and encourage suitable Pastoral Care Workers.
- Provide advice to Regional Managers about candidates in the pool.
3. Demand Planning
- Consult continuously with RMs on upcoming vacancies.
- Proactively manage the candidate Pool.
- Develop a pipeline of prospective PCWs to continuously replenish the pool.
4. Candidate Acquisition
- Manage the advertising for PCWs.
- Harvest applications from applicants not placed in specific vacancies into the pool.
5. Candidate Assessment:
- Develop and apply a standardised applicant assessment methodology, including interviews, work simulations, reference checks and candidate assessment summaries etc.
- Ensure accurate qualification assessments.
- If necessary, assess potential for Transitioning to qualification arrangements.
- Document existing WWCC / DCSI & RHANN-EC status.
- Undertake continuous assessment of applicants for the candidate pool.
- Manage the recruitment process to shortlist for specific school vacancies within the agreed time frame.
- Develop and maintain a candidate profile and supporting information on each candidate.
6. Candidate Data Management
- Ensure comprehensive records are maintained on each candidate to enable timely information to be provided to RMs and schools.
- Develop ongoing systems to update candidate information, such as experience, training, capability availability and application history.
7. Candidate Engagement
- Ensure pool candidates are aware of upcoming opportunities.
- Maintain current knowledge of suitable candidates for future positions.
- Provide comprehensive feedback to unsuccessful placements.
- Remove applicants who are no longer available or interested.
- Relevant recruitment experience.
- Knowledge of Pastoral Care
- Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing
- Strong IT ability
- Work under pressure, to meet deadlines and cope with uncertainty.
- Deal with multiple urgent tasks simultaneously.
- Work collaboratively with others.
- Work with and respect people with different beliefs and values.
- Accurately assess candidate suitability for placement into Pastoral Care Worker positions
- Fill vacancies within appropriate time frames.
Finance Officer
Permanent Part Time
Applications Close: 5:00PM ACDT Friday 10th November 2023
SMG offers ongoing pastoral and practical support through chaplaincy, Christian education, and wellbeing services to school communities in partnership with the combined Christian community and other organisations.
SMG is the employer of more than 300 Pastoral Care Workers in SA government schools and is an approved Chaplaincy Service provider of the South Australian Department for Education (DfE) through the National Student Wellbeing Program (NSWP).
SMG Vision
Young people and school communities across South Australia discovering Purpose, Value and Hope.
Ensure accurate recording of accounts receivable
and payable data. Reliable and timely processing of bill payments and management
of creditors. Invoicing, taking receipt of payments, and follow up of debtors. Reconciliation
of multiple bank accounts. Liaise with donors and supporters, while maintaining
positive relationships.
Supporting a faithful and Christ focused team to
enable South Australian young people and school communities the opportunity to
discover Purpose Value and Hope
The duties associated with this position include the following:
- Receive and record bills
- Supplier payments
- Prepare and send invoices to debtors
- Follow up outstanding debtors
- Receive and record debtors' payments
- Collate and file relevant documentation
- Prepare regular reports and summaries of accounting activities
- Verify recorded transactions and report irregularities to management
- Import baking data and prepare reconciliations of bank and other accounts
- Donation receipting and sending thank you letters
- Process, reconcile and reimburse employee debit card expense reports
- Relevant tertiary education and/or qualifications
- Book-keeping or accounting qualifications will be highly regarded
- Appropriate levels of
experience, skills, and aptitude for the task
- Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing
- Well organised and efficient
- Work under pressure, to meet deadlines
- Take initiative / be self-motivated
- Work as part of a team in a pleasant cooperative manner
- Manage time effectively
- Work autonomously
- NetSuite experience highly desirable
- Strong Microsoft Office knowledge
- Ability to embrace change, learn new software
and systems
- Timely and accurate record keeping
- Successful balancing and reporting of accounts
Creative Facilitator
Permanent Part Time
Applications Close: no close date
SMG offers ongoing pastoral and practical support through chaplaincy, Christian education, and wellbeing services to school communities in partnership with the combined Christian community and other organisations.
SMG is the employer of more than 300 Pastoral Care Workers in SA government schools and is an approved Chaplaincy Service provider of the South Australian Department for Education (DfE) through the National Student Wellbeing Program (NSWP).
SMG Vision
Young people and school communities across South Australia discovering Purpose, Value and Hope.
The role will be responsible for the creation, choreography, and musical design of performances and education shows.
- Design and coordinate performances for Kimochis® shows.
- Coordinate presenters, musicians, and band for SMG.
- Deliver professional, high-quality education performances and seminars.
- Liaise with external stakeholders.
- Create digital content.
- Relevant qualifications or experience in music/performing arts.
- Qualifications in Youth Work/Ministry, Education or Mental Health.
- Working with children and young people.
- Public Speaking and performing.
- Ability to recruit and coordinate musicians.
- Working in or around the music/performing arts industry and/or worship leading.
- Creative, fun and engaging with children and youth.
- Deliver consistent high-quality performances.
- Successfully create a supportive and professional environment.
Interstate and regional travel as required.
Wellbeing Trainer (Kimochis®)
Permanent Part Time
Applications Close: no close date
SMG offers ongoing pastoral and practical support through chaplaincy, Christian education, and wellbeing services to school communities in partnership with the combined Christian community and other organisations.
SMG is the employer of more than 300 Pastoral Care Workers in SA government schools and is an approved Chaplaincy Service provider of the South Australian Department for Education (DfE) through the National Student Wellbeing Program (NSWP).
SMG Vision
Young people and school communities across South Australia discovering Purpose, Value and Hope.
The role will be responsible for the creation, delivery, and monitoring of social and emotional training, presentations and programs delivered to staff, school communities and professional services.
- Develop and deliver Kimochis® training, presentations, and resources.
- Deliver professional, high-quality wellbeing training and coaching.
- Data collection, reviews, and evaluation of service provisions.
- Collaborate with external partnerships and support all programs.
- Appropriate qualifications/experience in Social Science/Work, Early Learning Education, Youth Work, or related field (desired).
- Extensive knowledge and at least three years’ experience working with the resource Kimochis (essential).
Person Specification:
- Program and/or training delivery.
- Trauma Informed Practice knowledge.
- Facilitating social emotional programs for children.
- Understanding family environments and needs (essential).
- Working within an education environment (schools, ELC, childcare).
- Training and content writing (PowerPoint, Session Plans).
- Basic Microsoft Office Suite knowledge (including Word, Excel).
- Positive customer experiences.
- High level team engagement.
Interstate and regional travel as required.
e-Learning Facilitator
Permanent Part Time
Applications Close: no close date
SMG offers ongoing pastoral and practical support through chaplaincy, Christian education, and wellbeing services to school communities in partnership with the combined Christian community and other organisations.
SMG is the employer of more than 300 Pastoral Care Workers in SA government schools and is an approved Chaplaincy Service provider of the South Australian Department for Education (DfE) through the National Student Wellbeing Program (NSWP).
SMG Vision
Young people and school communities across South Australia discovering Purpose, Value and Hope.
The role will be responsible for the platform creation and monitoring of all
e-Learning wellbeing education training options for internal and external participants.
- Create e-learning options from content provided by wellbeing education team.
- Monitor, review, and update training options.
- Maintain learning platforms and booking systems.
- Liaise with marketing regarding style, promotion, and communication.
- Certificate IV Training and Assessment(desired)
- Qualifications or experience in Information Technology.
- Understanding of online platforms.
- Extensive IT knowledge and skills.
- Creative and engaging resource development.
- Work well
within a team environment.
- To provide and maintain a professional eLearning platform.
- Positive internal stakeholder and customer feedback
Wellbeing Trainer
FTE: Part Time (0.4)
Applications Close: 08 October 2024
SMG is the largest chaplaincy service provider in South Australia, with approximately 350 employees, providing pastoral and practical support to whole school communities through the unique role of a Pastoral Care Worker (formerly School Chaplain), SMG Life Matters Seminars, and other Wellbeing Services such as Kimochis training and resources for professional development, classroom use, parent workshops and more.
Together, with the support and resources of the local combined Christian community and the work of Pastoral Care Workers and other SMG Wellbeing and Education Staff, the successful applicant has a unique opportunity to help young people and school communities discover Purpose, Value, and Hope.
SMG Vision
Young people and school communities across South Australia discovering Purpose, Value and Hope.
The role will be responsible for the creation, delivery, and monitoring of training for staff, and well-being workshops and programs delivered to school communities and other external customers.
- Develop and deliver social and emotional training, presentations, and resources.
- Deliver professional, high-quality wellbeing training and coaching in person, online and via webinars.
- Deliver training and workshops on relevant issues to assist pastoral care workers, educators and parents in their role supporting children and young people.
- Data collection, reviews, and evaluation of service provisions.
- Collaborate with external partnerships and support all programs.
- Extensive knowledge and experience working within trauma informed and restorative practices (essential).
- Appropriate qualifications/experience in Social Science/Work, Early Learning Education, Youth Work, or related field (desired)..
Person Specification:
- Program and/or training delivery.
- Trauma Informed Practice knowledge.
- Facilitating social emotional programs for children or young people.
- Understanding family environments and needs (essential).
- Working within an education environment (schools, ELC, childcare).
- Comfortable presenting on camera (live and video recording)
- Training and content writing (PowerPoint, Session Plans)
- Basic Microsoft Office Suite knowledge (including Word, Excel).
- Positive customer experiences.
- High level team engagement.
Interstate and regional travel as required.
email HR@smg.net.au to apply. Please include the following:
- your resume
- a cover letter telling us why you want to work at SMG.
Executive Assistant / Board Secretary
Permanent Full Time
Applications Close: 22 Jan. 2024
SMG offers ongoing pastoral and practical support through chaplaincy, Christian education, and wellbeing services to school communities in partnership with the combined Christian community and other organisations.
SMG is the employer of more than 300 Pastoral Care Workers in SA government schools and is an approved Chaplaincy Service provider of the South Australian Department for Education (DfE) through the National Student Wellbeing Program (NSWP).
SMG Vision
Young people and school communities across South Australia discovering Purpose, Value and Hope.
The Executive Assistant / Board Secretary provides high-level administrative and secretarial support to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and the Board of Directors. The role is responsible for managing the CEO’s schedule, preparing, and distributing correspondence and reports, organising meetings and events, and liaising with internal and external stakeholders. The role also assists the CEO and the Board Chair in preparing agendas, minutes, and materials for Board and Board sub-committee meetings, and ensuring compliance with governance policies and procedures.
Supporting a faithful and Christ focused team to enable South Australian young people and school communities the opportunity to discover Purpose Value and Hope
- Manage the CEO’s diary, travel arrangements, and expenses.
- Coordinate and support the CEO’s communication with the Executive Team, staff, clients, partners, media, and other stakeholders.
- Research, draft, edit, and proofread documents, presentations, and reports for the Executive team.
- Organise meetings and events for the Executive team, including booking venues, catering, equipment, and invitations ensuring legal compliance throughout.
- Prepare and distribute agendas, minutes, and action items for the Executive team and follow up on outstanding matters.
- Maintain and update the Board portal, register of members, and other governance records and documents.
- Support compliance with relevant legislation, regulations, standards, and best practices in relation to governance and administration.
- Handle confidential and sensitive information with the utmost professionalism and discretion.
- Screen and prioritise incoming calls, emails, and correspondence, and respond or redirect as appropriate.
- The creation and maintenance of an up-to-date board planning calendar outlining matters to be on the board’s agenda over the course of a year.
- Maintaining a register of conflicts of interest.
- Maintaining a register of Board policies as approved by the Board, and maintenance of these with respect to a systematic schedule for their review as determined by the board.
- Ensuring compliance and reporting requirements to statutory and third parties are accurately and timely fulfilled.
- Minimum 2 years Executive Assistant / Board Secretary experience (essential).
- Relevant education in business/admin (preferred).
- A commitment to the mission of the organisation.
- Knowledge of meeting procedures and governance systems and processes required to support the effective governance of non-for-profit organisations.
- Advanced digital literacy skills, with solid experience across the Microsoft Office suite of programs.
- Advanced written and verbal communication skills.
- High levels of accuracy, detail orientation and timeliness.
- Efficient and effective coordination of board meetings.
- Excellent organisation of CEO administration.
Admin Support
Permanent Full Time / Part Time (Flexible)
Applications Close: 22 Jan. 2024
SMG offers ongoing pastoral and practical support through chaplaincy, Christian education, and wellbeing services to school communities in partnership with the combined Christian community and other organisations.
SMG is the employer of more than 300 Pastoral Care Workers in SA government schools and is an approved Chaplaincy Service provider of the South Australian Department for Education (DfE) through the National Student Wellbeing Program (NSWP).
SMG Vision
Young people and school communities across South Australia discovering Purpose, Value and Hope.
To provide a welcoming and professional front of house service and to support the smooth running of the organisation through the provision of general administrative tasks.
Supporting a faithful and Christ focused team to enable South Australian young people and school communities the opportunity to discover Purpose Value and Hope.
1. Provide a welcoming and professional front of house service
- Greet visitors, responding to face-to-face enquiries or referring on to colleagues as appropriate.
- Handle incoming calls and emails, responding or redirecting as appropriate.
- Maintain a clean and tidy reception space, and ensure promotional materials are kept up to date.
- Monitor stock levels and order all office supplies as required including stationery, catering items, cleaning materials etc.
- Manage incoming and outgoing mail and other deliveries.
- Assist with invoicing as required.
- Monitor Kimochis stock and prepare for postage.
- Handle internal and external catering requirements for meetings and trainings.
- Assist with room requirements for events including equipment and furniture set-up, pack-down and clean-up work.
- Assist with bulk mail-outs as required.
- Carry out filing duties (paper and electronic).
- Maintain contact lists and rosters.
- Assist with the preparation for and delivery of SMG Conferences and other major events.
- Maintain records regarding Pastoral Care Worker qualifications
- Assist the required Reporting Process between schools, DfE and SMG as Service Provider (e.g., Applications, Progress Reports and Acquittals)
- Prepare for and collate training materials for Orientation 1
- Establish PCW vacant positions in systems by uploading Job and Person specifications and other relevant information to SMG website and keeping accurate records in IT systems.
- Collate, track, and record new Pastoral Care Worker requirements prior to commencing in their schools.
- Update database with Review outcomes and comments
- Appropriate levels of experience, skills, and aptitude for these duties.
- Qualifications applicable to the position will be highly regarded.
- Knowledge of office administration, systems, and practices.
- Strong skills with Microsoft office.
- Attention to detail.
- High level of interpersonal ability.
- Timely execution of assigned tasks & duties.
- Creating positive customer experiences through respective duties.
Thank you for expressing your interest in the Seasons For Growth – Primary School PCWs .
We will evaluate the availability of this course and get back to you soon!
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Children’s Show Presenter
The role of the Children's Show Presenter (casual) is to support the delivery of Kimochis Show presentations to children and school communities as part of the SMG wellbeing program. They will facilitate a safe, inclusive and enjoyable performance for students to learn and develop social and emotional skills.
Together, with the support and resources of the local combined Christian community and the work of Pastoral Care Workers and other SMG Wellbeing and Education Staff, the successful applicant has a unique opportunity to help young people and school communities discover Purpose, Value, and Hope.
Duties:
1. Performances
- Under direction, deliver Kimochis® Show performances to children
- Assist in the preparation, set up and packing away of equipment and resources for each show
- Work collaboratively as a team member with all Wellbeing Education staff members
- Assistance with review and development of Kimochis® Shows
- Contribute to media and social media content (where required)
- Attend rehearsals, learn scripts and songs (as required) and be fully prepared for each show (including knowing your parts thoroughly)
- Participate in opportunities to share various SMG offerings that are available to support wellbeing in schools
2. Administration
- Be efficient and timely in communication with the Creative Facilitator (or their representative) for all shows including for the pre-show planning, the day of the show and post show feedback etc.
3. Work Health and Safety
- Ensure own action or lack of action does not place own safety or those of others at risk
- Report hazards or accidents to your line manager
- Report immediately or as soon as practical
- Handle all equipment with care
Qualifications/Experience:
- Previous experience in performing arts (desirable)
- A Certificate IV, including 2 core units in mental health, pastoral care or youth work. Equivalent or Higher (desirable)
Specific Job Requirements
- Travel to external sites (in city and country SA areas)
- Current driver’s licence (can be probationary)
- DHS Working with Children Clearance
- Responding to Risks of Harm, Abuse and Neglect – Education and Care full training before commencement (provided by SMG as needed)
- Mandatory notification requirement to report any suspicion of abuse or neglect of children or young people to the Department of Education, Child Abuse Report Line (CARL) as required by the Child Protection Legislation.
Person Specification:
- Efficient verbal and written communication skills
- Confident in front of an audience
- Ability to communicate with and engage children effectively
- Efficient, punctual, organized and adaptable
- Work collaboratively and respectfully with others including people with differing beliefs and values
- Ability to wear a full costume (mascot) as required
- Ability to learn a script and sing and dance as required
- Communicate professionally with external stakeholders and promote the work of SMG
Performance Goals:
- Deliver professional, high-quality Kimochis® Shows
- Create a positive experience for audiences
In addition to the duties outlined above, you are also required to perform such other duties as may be directed by your supervisor or management provided these are within your competency or training.
- your resume
- a cover letter telling us why you want to work at SMG.
School Seminar Presenter
The role of the School Seminar Presenter (casual) is to support the delivery of quality values-based seminars, workshops, and programs to school students across South Australia. Help facilitate a safe, and inclusive space for students to learn and develop healthy social and emotional skillsets and overall wellbeing.
Together, with the support and resources of the local combined Christian community and the work of Pastoral Care Workers and other SMG Wellbeing and Education Staff, the successful applicant has a unique opportunity to help young people and school communities discover Purpose, Value, and Hope.
Duties:
1. Performance
- Under direction, present Christian and Values-based seminars, workshops, and program within all educational/care settings across SA from Reception to Year 12
- Assist in the preparation, set up and packing away of equipment and resources for each show
- Work collaboratively as a team member with all Wellbeing Education staff members
Support with social media content creation, including videoing and photography (where required) - Learn new scripts, programs and workshop content when required and be fully prepared for each show (including knowing your parts thoroughly)
- Participate in opportunities to share various SMG offerings that are available to support wellbeing in schools
2. Administration
- Be efficient and timely in communication with the Education Manager (or their representative) for all shows including for the pre-show planning, the day of the show and post show feedback etc.
3. Work Health and Safety
- Ensure own action or lack of action does not place own safety or those of others at risk
- Report hazards or accidents to your line manager
- Report immediately or as soon as practical
- Handle all equipment with care
Qualifications/Experience:
- A Certificate IV, including 2 core units in mental health, pastoral care or youth work. Equivalent or Higher (desirable)
Specific Job Requirements
- Travel to external sites (in city and country SA areas)
- Current driver’s licence (can be probationary)
- DHS Working with Children Clearance
- Responding to Risks of Harm, Abuse and Neglect – Education and Care full training before commencement (provided by SMG as needed)
- Mandatory notification requirement to report any suspicion of abuse or neglect of children or young people to the Department of Education, Child Abuse Report Line (CARL) as required by the Child Protection Legislation.
Person Specification:
- Work respectfully with people of differing beliefs and values
- Relate, communicate and work effectively with children and young people
- Deliver and facilitate presentations to large groups of people of varying ages, cultures, and beliefs
- Communicate the Christian faith with sensitivity and commitment in Christian and secular environments
- Communicate the mission and promote the work of Schools Ministry Group
- Efficient verbal and written communication skills
- Work collaboratively and respectively with others
- Vibrant and energetic
- Confident in front of an audience
- Efficient, organised, punctual and adaptable
- Communicate professionally with external stakeholders
- Ability to learn a script
Performance Goals:
- Deliver professional, high-quality Seminars
- Create a positive experience for audiences
In addition to the duties outlined above, you are also required to perform such other duties as may be directed by your supervisor or management provided these are within your competency or training.
- your resume
- a cover letter telling us why you want to work at SMG.
Wellbeing Coach
FTE: Casual (9hrs a week)
Applications Close: 6th of January 2025
SMG offers ongoing pastoral and practical support through chaplaincy, Christian education, and wellbeing services to school communities in partnership with the combined Christian community and other organisations.
SMG is the employer of more than 270 Pastoral Care Workers in SA government schools and is an approved Chaplaincy Service provider of the South Australian Department for Education (DfE) through the National Student Wellbeing Program (NSWP).
SMG Vision
Young people and school communities across South Australia discovering Purpose, Value and Hope.
The Wellbeing Coach with Schools Ministry Group will provide a range of social and emotional coaching to school communities. They are responsible for implementing The Wellbeing Classroom or Wellbeing Playschool framework through site/class work and guidance by using social-emotional strategies and resources to improve overall wellbeing culture within an educational setting.
- Work under the supervision of a Wellbeing Trainer to:
- Coach children in developing social and emotional skills, using Kimochis® and other wellbeing resources
- Guide educators on integrating these tools and approaches into daily practice.
- Assist the school in implementing a trauma informed approach
- Facilitate family learning events to parents and caregivers
- Maintain regular communication with school, SMG and other stakeholders
- Complete workplans and attend meetings as required
- Collect statistics and data on social emotional development of children as required and report in a timely manner.
- Collect and share feedback and stories from the school community
- Maintain a current knowledge of the needs of school communities and trauma informed practice
2. Safeguarding Children and Young People
Our organisation takes safeguarding children and young people seriously, and as an employee/volunteer of Schools Ministry Group you are required to meet the behaviour standards outlined in our Code of conduct. Which is provided during induction phase of employment.
As a part of your duties and responsibilities, you are also required to:
- provide a welcoming and safe environment for children and young people
- promote the safety and wellbeing of children and young people to whom we provide services
- ensure that your interactions with children and young people are positive and safe
- provide adequate care and supervision of children and young people in your charge
- act as a positive role model for children and young people
- report any suspicions, concerns, allegations or disclosures of alleged abuse, by personnel as well as external individuals to management
- report any breaches of policy by other personnel, however minor, to management
- Act on and report any incidents of racism as outlined in our Code of Conduct
- Support children and young people to express their culture and enjoy their cultural rights
- maintain valid Working with Children Check (or equivalent) documentation
- undergo periodic ‘national criminal history record’ checks
- report to management any criminal charges or convictions you receive during the course of your employment/volunteering that may indicate a possible risk to children and young people
- Appropriate qualifications in teaching, education, Youth Work, Ministry, or related field and/or demonstration of appropriate levels of experience, skills, and competency to complete the role efficiently
Experience using Kimochis® resources with children
- DHS Working with Children Clearance
- Responding to Risks of Harm, Abuse and Neglect – Education and Care full training before commencement (provided by SMG as needed)
Personal skills & Abilities Specification:
- High level communication skills
- Take initiative / be self-motivated
- Ability to develop and use resources creatively
- Organisational skills and efficient time management
- Works well under pressure and can be flexible when required
- Works well in a team environment
- Work with and respect people with different beliefs and values
- Can accept constructive feedback and direction
- Deliver professional, high-quality wellbeing coaching and social-emotional strategies
- Timely data collection and reporting
- Positive relationships with school community, SMG and all stakeholders.
- The successful applicant will be subject to a Working with Children Check (or equivalent) and Criminal History Records Check where applicable.
- Responding to Risks of Harm, Abuse and Neglect – Education and Care full training before commencement (provided by SMG as needed)
- Our organisation undertakes several screening processes to ensure the appropriate protection of children in its care. This includes reference checks, identity check, qualification checks and professional registration checks (where applicable).
In addition to the duties outlined above, you are also required to perform such other duties as may be directed by your supervisor or management provided these are within your competency or training.
Interstate and regional travel as required.
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