$33.2 Million Boost for Student Support Services
Thousands more Victorians students who require additional assistance will benefit from a $33.2 million package to expand student support services in schools over the next four years.
Student Support Services Officers (SSSOs) include guidance officers, psychologists, social workers, speech pathologists, visiting teachers who work with students with special education needs including those with a visual, hearing or physical impairment.
The 2008–09 Budget will fund an extra 70 SSSOs and 10 new coordinators to ensure specialised support is provided where it is most needed.
Student Support Services Officers play a vital role in our schools, helping students who may be experiencing a range of personal or social issues – everything from family breakdown, mental health and difficulty adjusting to school life.
Collectively, they provide valuable assistance to teachers and school communities in a range of areas that promote a school culture where students feel confident and supported at school.
The additional SSSOs will assist students with special needs by providing targeted intervention and specialist support.
The extra funding will also assist in building even better links between early intervention services and schools to create a smoother transition for children once they start school.
There are currently around 500 Student Support Services Officers who work across government schools throughout Victoria.
Download "$33.2 Million Boost for Student Support Services" fact Sheet (PDF - 59Kb)
More information
Victorian State Budget 2008-2009
Victorian State Budget website (http://www.budget.vic.gov.au)