National Student Wellbeing Program
The National Student Wellbeing Program (NSWP) is an initiative funded by the Commonwealth Government to support the wellbeing of Australian school students through chaplaincy and/or student wellbeing services. Previously called the National School Chaplaincy Program (NSCP), the purpose of the NSWP is to support the wellbeing of the broader school community through the provision of pastoral care services and strategies, developed in consultation with the school community, relevant school staff and principal. These may include volunteering activities, breakfast clubs, excursions, lunchtime activities and parent/carer workshops.
Catholic Schools NSW (CSNSW) is the sector authority responsible for assessing applications, managing, and allocating funding. The program is voluntary for all schools and students.
A list of Catholic schools participating in the 2024 NSWP can be found here.
Cyber Safety Professional Learning
As part of the NSWP, all funded chaplains and wellbeing officers must complete free professional learning in preventing and responding to cyberbullying, provided by the eSafety Commissioner. Chaplains/wellbeing officers can register for the training now at https://www.esafety.gov.au/educators/training-for-professionals/national-school-chaplaincy-program.
Complaints Handling
Catholic schools must enact general complaints handling processes for managing complaints related to individual chaplains or wellbeing officers. In accordance with the program guidelines CSNSW must be notified of any complaints against chaplains or wellbeing officers.
CSNSW acknowledges and recognises the role of the Commonwealth and NSW Governments in supporting this wellbeing initiative.
For further information, please contact Nathan Smith (Senior Policy Officer, Wellbeing, Catholic Schools NSW).
