Defence School Mentor (DSM) Program
Supporting Defence Families at Burraneer Bay Public School
What is the DSM Program?
Burraneer Bay Public School is proud to be a school in the south of Sydney to offer the Defence School Mentor (DSM) Program. This specialised program supports the wellbeing, engagement and academic success of students from Australian Defence Force families, recognising the unique experiences and challenges that can arise from Defence life.
At Burraneer Bay, we have a dedicated staff member who acts as the Defence School Mentor, providing personalised support to help Defence students feel happy, resilient and confident in their learning. The DSM works closely with students to encourage them to achieve their personal best while fostering strong connections within our school community.
Through understanding, care and consistent support, the DSM Program ensures Defence students are valued, supported and well equipped to thrive, both socially and academically, throughout their time at our school.
A Welcoming Hand
Starting a new school can be daunting, but for Defence children, it’s a regular part of life. At Burraneer Bay Public School, our DSM is a familiar and friendly face to support each child’s journey, making sure they feel valued, safe, and confident every step of the way.
DSM Program Objectives
The Defence School Mentor (DSM) Program is guided by four key objectives:
- Provide families with information about the school environment and the support available to meet their child’s developmental needs.
- Support students to access school-based social and emotional supports, aligned with school policies and procedures.
- Facilitate opportunities for students to build relationships and strengthen connections through events and other initiatives.
- Raise awareness among staff and the wider school community about the unique aspects of Defence family life.
Support Offered by the DSM
Our Defence School Mentor provides a range of support to ensure Defence students feel connected, supported and valued within our school community. This includes:
- Welcoming new Defence students and helping them adjust to their new environment
- Monitoring the social and emotional wellbeing of Australian Defence Force (ADF) students.
- Providing support during times of change, such as parental absence, deployment or relocation.
- Assisting new Defence families to settle smoothly into our school community.
- Creating opportunities for Defence students to build friendships and strengthen peer connections.
- Promoting awareness and appreciation of the unique Defence lifestyle within our school community.
- Facilitating small group wellbeing programs tailored to student needs.
- Organising welcome and farewell activities, including transition packs for new and departing students.
Why This Matters
Students from Defence families often experience unique circumstances as part of service life. These may include:
- Relocating to new schools due to postings.
- Experience extended absences of a parent or caregiver
- Rebuilding friendships and support networks after moving.
- Managing the emotional impact of family separation related to service commitments.
Having a dedicated Defence School Mentor at our school provides an added layer of care and understanding, helping students feel settled, supported and confident as they navigate change.
Want to Know More?
If you are a Defence family joining Burraneer Bay Public School, or would like more information about the Defence School Mentor (DSM) Program, please contact our school office.