​​​ Transition program makes school integration process easy for ADF families

Catholic schools are passionate about supporting our Defence force families and proudly participate in the Defence School Mentor (DSM) Program.

Based in our schools located close to Gallipoli Barracks, Enoggera, and RAAF Base Amberley, Ipswich, DSM​ aides (primary school) and mentors (secondary school) understand the issues Defence families face when transitioning to a new school.

Aides and mentors work with principals and staff to build school capability to support Defence families through direct and flexible on-site assistance to students, parents, teachers and other support services.

Their roles include:

• Helping with enrolment procedures
• Obtaining resources to ensure your child/children arrive at school with the correct uniform, books and stationery
• Referring your child/children to services or school and community programs that meet their needs
• Providing support to your child/children during times of parental absence
• Assisting your child/children to develop self-confidence, self-reliance and resilience
• Monitoring the social, emotional wellbeing and personal issues of your child/children, such as friendships, peer groups and classroom difficulties
• Enhancing awareness and appreciation of the unique Defence lifestyle in schools
• Organising various activities including ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day

BCE schools close to RAAF Base Amberley:

• St Ann’s School, Redbank Plains
• St Mary’s Primary School, Ipswich*
• Good Shepherd School, Springfield Lakes
• St Francis Xavier School, Goodna
• Sacred Heart School, Booval
• Immaculate Heart School, One Mile
• St Joseph’s School, North Ipswich
• St Brigid’s School, Rosewood
• St Mary’s College, Ipswich*
• St Augustine’s College, Augustine Heights*
• St Peter Claver College, Riverview*​
  

BCE schools close to Gallipoli Barracks, Enoggera:

• All Saints Parish School, Albany Creek*
• Our Lady of the Assumption School, Enoggera*
• St Andrew’s School, Ferny Grove*
• Our Lady of Dolour’s School, Mitchelton*
• St Finbarr’s School, Ashgrove
• Mater Dei School, Ashgrove West
• St Ambrose School, Newmarket
• St Peter Chanel School, The Gap
• Mt Maria College, Mitchelton*

*schools with Defence School Transition aides/mentors