A philanthropic foundation has been praised for helping a student welfare program expand at Ulladulla High School.
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In 2016, under Federal Government funding, the wellbeing program started and Ice Schaap was appointed for that year and 2017.
During this time the demand and further support for the student body was clearly demonstrated, Ulladulla High School P&C president Matt Knight said.
The P&C submitted a grant application to the Snow Foundation and were approved for $120,000 over three years.
"We were delighted to hear of the increased funding support and expanded hours at the beginning of 2018," Mr Knight said.
"It took the program from six hours a week to a 26-hour a week program."
Mr Schaap participates in general activities in the life of the school, and facilities programs such as Love Bites and Bro Speak. Love Bites is about respectful relationships and Bro Speak is about Aboriginal mentoring.
Approximately 12 to 14 hours a week in 2018 was allocated to individual casework support for vulnerable students and students in crisis.
He also assists with special needs and behaviour management programs, develops adventure-based learning programs, supports teachers and offers counselling to students including teaching self awareness, assists students in crisis situations and counsels students who have sick family members or parents dealing with mental health issues.
Approximately 12 to 14 hours a week in 2018 was allocated to individual casework support for vulnerable students and students in crisis.
In 2018 approximately 180 hours of direct outdoor education support was provided including mountain biking, canoeing and bush walks. Outdoor activities add value to students' social and emotional resilience, Mr Knight said.
To keep the successful program running, Ulladulla High School P&C is hosting a Wellbeing Program fundraiser on Friday, November 1 at the Ulladulla Civic Centre.
The P&C is seeking donations for the event. Contact Matt Knight via email: matt@precium.com.au.
A previous version stated the fundraiser was at OceanVibe.