At Borinya we implement a School Wide Positive Behaviour Support (SWPBS) framework called WALK. WALK is a framework that sets whole school expectations for staff, students, visitors and volunteers with four key expected behaviours, Courageous, Resilient, Inclusive and Curious. Students are explicitly taught these expected behaviours within the Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) program in context to their Class time, Break time, Online and Community Learning spaces. Daily, our morning gatherings focus on these expected behaviours as a reflection in the context to Catholic Identity.
At Borinya we recognise and value highly that quality relationships are fundamental to student engagement and learning. Our SEL program is a learning program that provides an opportunity for small groups (five students and 1-2 adults) to develop quality relationships within the context of social and emotional awareness.
As a part of Pastoral Care and Wellbeing, Borinya staff have developed a framework for which all students can be supported regardless of their social, emotional and learning needs. We call this Borinya WALK Behavioural Support (on our website)and we strive to provide the best support possible for our students and families to thrive.
The role of the Social Worker is to provide case management and holistic wellbeing support to young people attending Borinya within an educational setting. This support is grounded in a strengths‑based, trauma‑informed approach and aims to enhance students’ engagement, wellbeing, and capacity to participate in learning.
With the support of the Social Worker, young people are assisted to identify and address concerns or barriers impacting their education and overall wellbeing. This includes collaboratively setting and working towards goals across a range of life domains, such as school engagement and attendance, mental health, emotional regulation, peer relationships, and family connections.
Support may be provided on a regular or as‑needed basis and can include individual wellbeing support, advocacy, problem‑solving, and emotional support within the school environment. The Social Worker works closely with families and school staff to strengthen communication, coordinate support, and promote positive outcomes for the young person.
As part of this collaborative approach, the Social Worker also maintains regular communication with Social Emotional Learning (SEL) mentors to share relevant wellbeing information, insights, and observations that may assist in informing and reviewing students’ Personal Learning Plans (PLPs). This collaboration supports a holistic understanding of each student’s needs and ensures that learning plans are responsive to the young person’s social, emotional, and wellbeing goals. Where appropriate, students may also be discussed within Student Review Meetings to support coordinated planning, monitor progress, and ensure consistency of support across the team.
Where additional or specialist support is required, the Social Worker assists young people and their families to access and engage with external services, such as psychologists, general practitioners, mental health services, or community agencies. This may include making referrals, supporting appointment attendance, and facilitating ongoing collaboration between services.
The Social Worker may also contribute to attendance planning, wellbeing meetings, risk assessments, and transitional planning, ensuring support is coordinated, responsive, and aligned with the young person’s individual needs.
